Central Falls & Pawtucket Vow To Promote A Nonviolent Summer

CENTRAL FALLS, RI – With summer approaching, mayors, police chiefs, and community leaders from Central Falls and Pawtucket today announced a renewed commitment to preventing violence and helping at-risk youth in the two cities.

"One victim of violence is way too many," said Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera, who spoke of the the heartbreak endured by families who have lost loved ones to recent gun homicides. “We need to identify and divert conflicts before they become devastating acts of violence.”

Central Falls is investing in a full-time outreach worker from the Providence-based Nonviolence Institute, Rivera announced. The worker — Manny Silva — will spend time with young people, build relationships, help connect young people with resources, and encourage positive choices, Rivera said.

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Speakers gathered outside Central Falls High School to deliver remarks. Each said the goal is to help at-risk youth choose nonviolence, stability, and a positive path in life.

"I can't stress enough how important it is to work together," said Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien. He said that city will continue to fund its own outreach position and will partner with Central Falls in a seven-week summer program for youth.

Cedric Huntley, Executive Director of the Nonviolence Institute (Patch RI Photo)

"We have to start to see our young people, to believe in them, and to keep them safe," said Cedric Huntley, executive director of the Nonviolence Institute. Huntley said the nonprofit is looking forward to working with Pawtucket and Central Falls this summer.

Outreach worker Manny Silva spoke in Central Falls on May 27. (Patch RI photo)

Silva said it's time to stop talking and to take action. "You can plan, plan, plan, plan, plan," he said. "But without opportunities, you're going to be walking in the same circle." Silva, who remarked that he is the father of a newborn child, said that building trust and relationships within the community is essential.

Chachi Carvalho/Patch RI Photo

Charles “Chachi” Carvalho, chairman of the Pawtucket Community Advisory Board, said as a lifelong city resident, he has seen much tragedy. "My shoulders have caught too many tears," he said while adding that the cities must be "brave and creative" in establishing more opportunities
for youth.

Central Falls Police Colonel Anthony Roberson (Patch RI photo)

Central Falls Police Colonel Anthony Roberson said the entire police department has undergone non-violence training. "It's about growing community relationships to keep our city safe." he said. Officers will be walking the beat and riding bikes this summer to be more approachable
and visible.

“Keeping our streets and our kids safe this summer is a top priority,” Roberson said.

The City of Central Falls is launching a webpage where it will list youth opportunities for a safe summer, said Rivera.