South DeKalb groups host “Stop the Violence” rally April 30

DEKALB COUNTY, GA—Tired of the “systemic” violence plaguing South DeKalb gas stations, several community groups held a “Stop the Violence” rally on Saturday, April 30, at the Kroger parking lot located at Redan and S. Hairston roads.

The anti-violence demonstration was held where two homicides occurred days part last December at the local BP and Chevron gas stations.

The rally was organized by the Rockbridge Coalition, NAACP DeKalb, Greater Hidden Hills Civic Association and DeKalb Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson.

“In 2021, DeKalb County hit a homicide record for the second year in a row,” said Commissioner Cochran-Johnson. “Our law enforcement professionals are doing everything they can to address this issue, but I believe the key to solving what we face lies with us as a community. We must provide direct intervention to vulnerable youth through ongoing mentorship, counseling, services, and economic opportunities.

Lance Hammonds, who heads the DeKalb NAACP and the Rockbridge Coalition, said residents and businesses must unite to help restore revive the community.

“The community has changed a lot since I moved here 30 years ago,” said Hammonds.  “We want the businesses to stay here and we want our areas to be attractive. We just want to let them know we’re here to help you.”

Photos provided.