Houston councilman and community groups launch coalition to address youth violence

Councilman Joaquin Martinez (District I) convened a press conference in Houston to announce a community coalition aimed at reducing youth violence and expanding services for young people affected by juvenile justice, child welfare, immigration and homelessness. Martinez said the initiative will combine mentorship, fitness programs and reentry support to “give them the tools they need to break the cycle of violence and traumas.”

The announcement followed Martinez’s call for a moment of silence for former Mayor and Congressman Turner and came amid what organizers described as rising juvenile violence locally and statewide. Martinez cited recent local incidents and statistics: “Just recently, this past weekend, this past weekend, we’ve had about 5, involved, teenage involved shootings, where 4, unfortunately, teenagers, tragically lost their lives,” and he said juvenile homicides statewide “have risen by 108 percent, from 2019 to 2020,” quoting figures referenced by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

The coalition will bring together grassroots…