Oakland leaders host Ceasefire teach-ins to show how violence prevention is working

Oakland's Violence Prevention program reports a significant 50% decline in shootings over 18 months following the reimplementation of the Ceasefire strategy. Officials conducted a teach-in to educate residents about the program's effectiveness in reducing gun violence. Mayor Barbara Lee stated that the strategy targets less than 1% of the population responsible for most violence, emphasizing its focused approach. Holly Joshi, chief of the Violence Prevention program, explained that the initiative includes direct engagement with identified individuals and offers support services like job training and housing assistance. Council Member Carroll Fife confirmed the program's success and encouraged public awareness of its benefits.

Ceasefire, initially launched in 2019, was halted due to funding issues but resumed in 2023. The city cites years of research supporting Ceasefire as a leading gun violence prevention strategy in the U. S. Two additional teach-ins are planned for the next two Thursdays, furthering community education and involvement.