"A Native American tradition is sparking hope in Chicago's Back of the Yards neighborhood. The area is a community facing gangs, guns and violence, but with the help of a Catholic priest, peace is the message this week. "We want to walk for peace and justice," one person said. Dozens gather to join in the efforts. "So often we hear that Back of the Yards is violent. Tonight it's a place of peace," another said Friday night. The peace is considered a Native American way by those gathered. There were many drums but one beat. "The drum represents the beat of the earth, of Mother Earth, Tonantzin," said drum instructor Josie Dykas. "We're going to pray for Tonantzin because the healing has to come from the inside to come out." Marchers hope it is time to heal - after so much pain. Since August, five young people have been killed in the neighborhood. Fr. Bruce Wellems of Holy Cross/ Immaculate Heart of Mary officiated three of the funerals. "We are not going to lay down and die," he said. "We're going to be a people of hope. They're showing me how to do that.""
'via Blog this'Back of the Yards residents drum for peace | abc7chicago.com:
Sept 21, 2015 International Day of Peace Celebration at Lyceum University Cavite, Philippines
Ambassador Zara Bayla Juan, Sailing for Peace #PeaceDay
