Concerned Citizens Organize Walk in Response to Recent Violence in Norristown

In response to the recent escalation of violence in Norristown (including the Christmas night murder of 24-year-old Paul Brown, the Oct. 20 murder of Ryan Ladson-Singleton, and recent shootings), the men and women of Norristown Clubs United are planning a memorial walk on Saturday, Dec. 29 at 2 p.m.

Organizers are asking residents who are concerned about the recent violence to join them in this show of solidarity. The walk will begin at Marshall and Buttonwood streets in the West End.

"We are not asking you, the concerned citizen, to do much," community organizer Buck Jones wrote to Norristown Patch in an email. "Just walk with us as we re-visit the sites of senseless murders that have taken place in our beloved Norristown."

Jones added that the walk is not about assigning blame, but about gathering as a community to show a united front in the face of violence. 

"The answer is not in pointing fingers at who is or who is not doing what," wrote Jones. "The answer is in stepping up as a community and saying 'Enough is enough,' and bringing light to the dark situations that have put a shadow over our town."

Organizers suggested bringing a stuffed animal, picture, candle or other memorabilia to commemorate those lost to violence. 

Jones added a personal plea to residents to join him in this effort.

"Yes, we have walked before and as for me, I will walk again," wrote Jones. "What ever it takes to do my part. We are asking you to join us now so that we can show a united force. THe people of Norristown will come together and stand together... This is an invitation; as a matter of fact, this is plea for help. I beg you on behalf of myself, Norristown Clubs United, my children, my family, my friends, my town, my home –  come and walk with us so that together we can make a loud and clear statement: This is our home and you are not welcome here!"