Are efforts to curb violence in Roanoke simply preaching to the choir?

Preaching to the choirPhoto byJohn OnaekoonUnsplash

Roanokers feel they need to be armed

There was a recent shooting in the parking lot of Taco Bell on Hershberger Ave in broad daylight. One of the victims was a teen who said he did not even know anyone involved and yet a bullet struck him. I have noticed in NorthWest Roanoke an increase in men and women with guns around their waists which suggests this is a result of the uptick in gun violence.

I continue to hear conversations throughout the city where individuals say it's time they purchase a gun because things are getting bad in the area. Several people have asked me if the mayor, city council, and all the groups marching and praying for gun violence to end only preaching to the choir. which means you are addressing those who already agree with you.

Driver caught on tape in HamptonPhoto byYoutube screenshot

Is the target audience being reached?

The sentiment in the city seems to be that those who are involved in efforts to stop the shootings are already law-abiding citizens and their efforts are not reaching those in the Star City who have a different mindset. Rob Johns said that for every gun that is turned in, the individual could always purchase another and he did not think this effort would make a difference.

Nikki Bowen said that with each new catchphrase like "It stops now", and declaring victory and a 30-day cease-fire and marching there has been an increase in shootings. Citizens are thankful for all the efforts but don't believe they are reaching the target audience who believe shooting is the answer.