Earlier today, members of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity marched through Chicago's West Chatham neighborhood to stand up against violence in their community. Through snowy conditions, they waved signs and protested to bring awareness to the South Side community's crime issues (Chatham has the 12th highest violent crime rate of any neighborhood in the city, according to the Chicago Tribune). Their actions caught the attention of the neighborhood's most famous resident Chance the Rapper. After learning of the event, the rapper tweeted his support, saying that he stands with them and that they were doing "man's work."
Right now the Alphas are marching through my neighborhood of West Chatham on 79th demanding peace. I stand with you. This is mans work.
I haven't spoken out on Tyshawn's death. But if you're a parent you know I'm deeply hurt and appalled.
We not goin for this shit no more. The men in the family are standing up and against anymore violence on our children watch what we do next
The Chicago native has long been outspoken about crime in his city, promoting an annual anti-violence initiative called #SaveChicago and being given the Outstanding Youth of the Year award for his work to stop gun violence. It's also been a frequent topic in his music, with songs like "Pusha Man" delving into the dark reality he's seen growing up in the historically troubled community. With people like Chance and the members of Alpha Phi Alpha speaking out, hopefully more change is coming to the city.
