Assemblywoman Davila, representative of the 53rd assembly district in partnership with Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, Councilman Antonio Reynoso, Senator Martin Dilan and Grand Street Settlement joined together on Friday, May 18th with Bushwick Houses residents to bring peace to the community after the homicide of two Bushwick neighbors. Pastor Jason Taber from St. Joseph's opened the rally with a prayer; Assemblywoman Davila spoke a few words in hopes to rebuild the strength and secureness in Bushwick as representatives from Congresswoman Velázquez, Councilman Reynoso and Senator Dilan gave brief remarks.

There was a strong engagement with the community and police officers from the 90th precinct and PSA 3 who spoke about safety tips and provided everyone with imperative information concerning the neighborhood. Thrive NYC was also present to speak on dealing with grief. Also, in attendance were Marty Needleman from Brooklyn Corp A and Juan Ramos from Los Sures. Children from the Grand St. Settlement Center presented their artwork as it reflected against gun violence, and they were all given an award for their participation.

Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez said, "By speaking with one collective voice, we can make clear that our community will not tolerate these acts of violence and that we demand our neighbors feel safe in their homes and community. This issue will not resolve itself. It requires all of to come together, working at the local, citywide, state and federal levels, and drawing together members from across the community to say these acts of violence will never be accepted and we must do better."

"As members of the community we have to stay connected and raise awareness on gun violence as it remains to be a predominate issue throughout our city. Due to the recent incidents in Bushwick many community residents feel on edge. Our community here at Bushwick Houses should always feel safe and I stand by them as we all find strategic ways to combat gun-violence," said Assemblywoman Maritza Davila.

"It's important to speak out against violence, but you have to meet it with force to counter it. We have to express ourselves as a community. We have to say loudly that acts like those committed at Bushwick Houses will not be the norm. We must stand up to violence and show that it has no place in Bushwick and will not be tolerated," said Senator Martin Malavé Dilan.

"I stand in solemn solidarity with my follow elected officials, community groups, and residents, and send my most sincere condolences to the friends and family of the victims of last week's senseless violence," said Council Member Antonio Reynoso. "Last week's horrific occurrence has understandably perpetuated feelings of anxiety and unease amongst residents. At this time, it is imperative that we come together as a community; working to rebuild bonds of trust by facilitating an open dialogue about how to ensure that something like this never happens again. I am committed to the work that lies ahead of us in this endeavor," said Councilman Antonio Reynoso.

"Grand St. Settlement opposes violence in all forms and supports community-focused efforts to address the recent spate of tragic gun violence in Bushwick." said Robert Cordero, Executive Director of Grand St. Settlement.

Gun-Violence has taken a toll on many lives and there are families who are still grieving for a loved one who was a victim of gun-violence. City and state legislators will continue to fight for stronger gun laws to ensure safer neighborhoods.