Stop the Violence ad campaign hopes perpetrators will think twice before shooting
Bishop Washington (middle) partners with the WSPD and other organizations to end gun violence.
“With gun violence and crime increasing by the month, week and hour, it’s soon to touch all zip codes if we stand by and do nothing,” said Bishop Washington of Whole Man Ministries.
At the beginning of the year, in the month of January, there were 14 murders; then in February 14 more murders. Whole Man Ministries called 40 pastors, Mayor Allen Joines, and Police Chief Penn together on March 4 for a regional prayer at The Enterprise Conference Center, in the heart of the community.
“We were intentional and visible on purpose,” said Pastor Camilla Washington of Whole Man Ministries. “After seeing and hearing the news of several homicides in the first two months, we could no longer stand by. The results of the prayer – there were no murders in the month of March. Prayer works!”
Bishop Washington has a new initiative and he thinks the media could be helpful in lowering violent crime. He would like to create seven commercials to dramatize gun violence and crime. Each commercial is breathtaking to make the viewers think, as well as educate a would-be perpetrator. He calls it, “Stop The Violence Campaign.”
“We are funding the first two commercials out of our own pockets with help from Rodney Williams, Corbin Kelly and other local actors,” said Bishop Washington.“Personally, I believe this is a blueprint for cities and states across the country to help stop or decrease violent crimes.”
Bishop Washington said some of these commercials will tell the untold story of the IMPACT a violent crime has on both the victims’ and perpetrators’ families.
Behind the scenes: the perpetrator’s journey through jail, court, and prison for the rest of their life. Seeing this will help educate and inspire those who would potentially commit a crime.
“We need your help! Violent crime is on the rise. If we do nothing, gun violence will continue to increase at an alarming rate. It is no longer an option to stand by and do nothing,” said Pastor Camilla.
“This is a start to change the trajectory, by informing and educating the public and would-be perpetrators. Perhaps one of these short commercials will turn the heart of a potential perpetrator, while at the same time change the lives of many,” said Bishop Washington. “One commercial will start playing on television soon.”
If you would like to join us in partnership to create and air seven 30-second commercials to present this nonviolent campaign across the Triad, please contact us at info@wholemanministries.com or call 336-785-2080.
