Contributor:  Daniel Johnson

There was an impressive turnout for JMMF’s National Night Out event this past Tuesday. Neighbors were dancing, sharing stories, and enjoying hot dogs fresh off the grill. Tenants from the Jackson Medical Mall were on hand to raise awareness about their community services and Significant Developments offered an activity which invited neighbors to create awards for each other! Young people seemed especially excited to take the opportunity to recognize their parents and friends for everything from having the #1 Smile to being the Best Emcee.

City officials teamed up to show their support for the event as well by greeting the community and sharing some of the progress and plans of our city. Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba, Police Chief Lee Vance, and Fire Chief R.D. Simpson were among city representatives who showed support for the growing community of East Village. “I believe that there is nothing wrong with Jackson that can’t be cured by what is right with Jackson,” stated Mayor Lumumba during his address that carried a tone of hope and optimism for the improvement of the city.

Each year, JMMF hosts National Night Out to strengthen communities by encouraging neighborhoods to engage in stronger relationships with each other and with their local law enforcement partners. The goal is to heighten crime prevention awareness, build support and participation in local anti-crime programs, and most importantly, send a message that our neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

The event was free and opened to the public.