JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
A Jackson city council member reacts to recent violence by bringing members of the community together in search of solutions.
Ward Three Councilwoman Larita Cooper-Stokes held a "Silence the Violence" community meeting Sunday at Jackson City Hall.
A panel of community members discussed the reasons for violence and offered solutions.
They said more positive activities for youth, parental involvement and better resources for resolving arguments are some answers.
The group said residents need to work with police to monitor the actions in their neighborhoods and report illegal activities.
"People today do not know how to deal with conflicts. When I was a child we argued about things. Now people don't argue. They don't reason out difficulties. Often times these conflicts end in violence. So I think that meaningful conflict resolution is also key," said Clinical Psychologist Dr. Kaye Sly, PHD.
Stokes said she plans to introduce a resolution denouncing gun and other violence and promoting mediation as a means of conflict resolution.
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