Rising gang activity and an increase in juvenile crime victims has prompted a coalition of concerned high school students to organize a “Week of Peace” that will culminate with a rally across from City Hall.

The week, March 12-18, will include activities such as the signing of a Peace Pledge, creation of peace collages, distribution of green ribbons and “Challenge Days” for students at C.K. McClatchy and Hiram Johnson high schools. Luther Burbank High School will also host two kick-off assemblies on Monday, March 14 beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Challenge Day, operated by a national non-profit, puts 100 teens through a series of “experiential” workshops that celebrate diversity and demonstrate the powerful and positive effect of understanding others.

Students will also fold 1,000 origami cranes, a symbol of world peace.
The week will end with a Peace Rally from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, March 18, at Cesar Chavez Park, located downtown at 10th and J streets.

Planning of the “Week of Peace” has brought together teens from various high schools in the region, including Hiram Johnson, Burbank, McClatchy, Grant and St. Francis. Crandal Rankins, executive director of Power Forward, is leading the initiative. Other groups involved include Sacramento ACT, The Effort and the Sacramento Youth Commission.