Massachusetts House lawmakers eliminated $3.5 million for a youth violence prevention program operated by the Department of Public Health. Our Supreme Court just ruled that illegal gun possession is a 'passive and victimless' crime. It certainly makes it seem like Massachusetts has finally won the war against youth violence in its communities.

Then a shooting... and another. More deaths. And the realization that our state hasn't won, it has surrendered.

But there are young people who call these violence-stricken communities home that aren't quite ready to cede defeat. Last year, the Hyde Square Task Force's Health Careers Ambassadors created a documentary entitled 'Looking for Peace: One Block at a Time.' The film frames youth violence as a public health issue, discussing the causes of and solutions to this epidemic in our neighborhoods.

This summer, these young people are taking peace on tour. They're screening their film and leading workshops across Massachusetts. But now, thanks to Comcast, you don't have to schedule a stop on the Peace Tour to see this powerful documentary.

Are you a Comcast subscriber? Visit the ON DEMAND menu, select Get Local, then Comcast Cares to watch the full documentary!

Not a subscriber? Search for 'Looking for Peace' on YouTube!

For more information, contact Guy Armand at 617.524.8303 or guy@hydesquare.org.



We need your help to restore anti-violence funding!

Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz and State Representative Jeffrey Sanchez have stepped up to save these valuable programs. We are enormously grateful for her support! Here's what you can do to help:

* Attend the youth-organized 'iMatter, Youth Matter!' rally to restore funding in front of the State House on Wednesday, May 20th, at 3PM!


* Call your State Senator and ask him/her to cosponsor the amendments offered by Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz to fully fund the Department of Public Health and Youth Works anti-violence line items. Find your State Senator here.


* Tell your State Senator to support raising new revenue in fair ways rather than cutting much-needed youth programs.


For more information, contact Mark Pedulla at 617.524.8303 or mark@hydesquare.org.