Churches, community groups working to curb Chicago violence over Memorial Day weekend

Added: 2026-05-28

[00:00:00]As summer nears and more people are expected to be outside, local groups and churches are coming together to curb violence. This is part of an initiative called Hands Across Chicago. We believe in the power of prayer, but we'll also the power of presence. So, we're we're trying to merge the two here.

[00:00:17]>> Englewood Family Outreach is one of many groups participating in Hands Across Chicago. Prayer services will take place across churches and city streets on Memorial Day weekend. The message is meant to unite, inspire, and call for peace. I've been in the community for 25 years, so I I've obviously seen abs and flows in the violence over the years and >> Today, Chicago beaches open up and festivals will get underway marking the unofficial start of the summer. While fun is on the agenda for many, city leaders reiterating that safety is still the top priority. Just yesterday, Mayor Johnson laid out his 2026 summer safety strategy. It will focus on neighborhoods seeing ongoing crime while also working with community partners to provide summer jobs and safe spaces for young people. According to CPD crime statistics from April analyzed by our ABC 7 data team, overall violent crime in the city, including murders, carjackings, and shootings are down compared to the average of the prior 3 years. However, the city is still dealing with so-called teen takeovers.

[00:01:21]The most recent one happened in Hyde Park last weekend. A 14-year-old girl was arrested after being accused of attacking an officer while refusing to leave the area. Mayor Johnson is urging parents to step up. Before this weekend ends, I'm calling on all of the parents and adults in this city to speak directly to your young people. I'm going to speak directly to my children. We also think education is a huge thing.

[00:01:49]Helping these students get to a point where they're not just able to get a job, but able to get and keep a job and and be an active part of their community. This weekend, the Chicago Police Department canceled days off to ensure officers have a presence across the city. We will also have additional resources deployed in our business areas. Like the beaches, our busiest areas like the beaches, the lakefront, downtown, our business corridors throughout the entire summer.

[00:02:17]Community violence intervention groups are also expected to have expanded hours throughout the long holiday weekend.