Philly organization Erase the Rate addresses gun violence by empowering the community

A “Walk to End Homicide” is set for February 10.

Erase the Rate founder Davida Garner

After the Eagles won the Super Bowl, much of the city was in a celebratory mood. But some people were not. Count among that second group the relatives and loved ones of the six people reportedly shot — and one killed — over the course of that very night.

Gun violence and related deaths are an unfortunate constant in Philadelphia, no matter what other victories the city celebrates.

Though it dipped slightly in the middle of the decade, Philly’s homicide rate has ticked back up. Last year saw 317 victims, compared to 277 the year prior. As of Feb. 5, the Philadelphia Police Department had recorded 25 homicides.

Philly native Davida Garner is trying to raise awareness of the problem with a new organization — and its latest effort is a big public event set for this weekend.

On Saturday, Feb. 10, Erase the Rate will host a “Walk to End Homicide.”

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peak thumbnailDominique “Peak” Johnson is a North Philadelphia journalist. He is one of the founding editors and writers of the North Philly Metropolis. Currently he freelances for WHYY, Billy Penn and Citywide StoriesClick here to learn more about Peak.