‘Kids aren’t even scared to hear gunshots’: Durham kids say they are fed up with gun violence

DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) — The youth in Durham said they are fed up when it comes to gun violence.

Read more Cumberland County Schools celebrate academic gains, including an F-to-C turnaround

Friday, those kids led a conversation with city leaders, asking how much more they have to put up with before they see change.

“It’s shocking to me that kids aren’t even scared to hear gunshots anymore because it’s normal,” Gun violence survivor Gamaeka Smith said.

If you are not hearing it, Kjadija Jabbarkhel said you are seeing it just like she has on multiple occasions at just 12-years-old.

“I have been in three drive-bys and I feel like how many times I’ve gotten saved it has to be because God wants me to keep pushing and keep pushing,” Jabbarkhel said.

Jabbarkhel said she is pushing for answers on how to make the violence stop.

“Not only is my family getting affected by it, but other people’s families,” Jabbarkhel said.

Jabbarkel is joined by other young adults and teenagers in the Graced organization. Friday, they sat down with Durham Mayor Leo Williams, who listened to their frustrations.

Read more Maiava passes for 349 yards, hits frosh Mosley for 2 TDs in No. 14 USC’s 39-0 rout of Fresno State

“They should be, I have spoken up loud and clear for our young people and will continue to,” Mayor Williams said.

Mayor Williams said change won’t happen overnight and larger conversations need to happen.

“The mayor doesn’t do it by himself. I think every elected official in our community, as well as other community leaders need to hear what our young people have to say,” Mayor Williams said.

Encouraging those who are not involved in the conversation already to be proactive in the change.

“It’s more fun to come together as a community than it is to destruct and tear up each other in the streets,” Former chair Durham County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council, Kevin McIver, said.

Mayor Williams said the conversation will continue at a youth summit where more leaders will be present to hear those concerns.

Read more Mensah throws 5 TD passes, Toney sets record in No. 7 Miami’s 45-6 win over Stanford

A date has yet to be announced.