Speaker to share anti-violence message

May 11--Jabaris Walker

Jabaris Walker

ROCKY MOUNT -- With the backing of local law enforcement and clergy, a young man will speak out against violence and gangs and share a message of inspiration with youth in Nash and Edgecombe counties this month.

Jabaris Walker is inviting teenagers and young adults to "become a part of the solution in your community" by attending his Project Diamond in the Rough event at 6 p.m.May 16 at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 702 W. Raleigh Blvd. in Rocky Mount.

The Nash County Sheriff's Office promoted Walker's inspirational speech in a recent news release, and Chief Deputy Brandon Medina said the Edgecombe County Sheriff's Office, the senior resident Superior Court judge and Pastor Thomas Walker of Ebenezer Baptist are all "standing behind" the effort.

"I want this initiative to be one that will inspire people who have made bad choices in life to know they are supported by their neighbors, the community and local law enforcement officers that are all willing to work together to better the community," Walker said in a statement released by the Nash County Sheriff's Office. "Project Diamond in the Rough is a great opportunity for the youth and young adults from Rocky Mount, Edgecombe and Nash County to come together."

The metaphor of a diamond in the rough was chosen to represent people with great potential, but who need refinement in order to shine.

"Walker understands that most youth who take the wrong path come from good homes and are very smart," Medina said in the release. "Walker also indicated that most youth join a gang because it is perceived as being cool."

For more information on Project Diamond in the Rough, call 252-955-7249.

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