Every New Orleanian knows the statistic: highest per capita murder rates in the United States. For the most well-known city, in the state best known for “bringing up the rear” in every quality of life statistic, being cast as Number 1 is no prize. This book examines fully what plagues New Orleans and other communities that are entrenched in this downward spiral of social illness, and offers REAL policy proposals as cures. I read this book through my lens as a civil rights attorney, social justice advocate and organizer; it is compelling and a must read for those who want to advance community conversations on change.

Tracie L. Washington, MPA, JD, President & CEO, Louisiana Justice Institute

This book is an awesome illustration of how gun violence in America continues to reach all socioeconomic levels. Several authors bring to the forefront the localized terrorism that plagues our city streets, but also indicate our lack of ability to control gun violence. The research and statistics are phenomenal and I believe the authors, indeed, provoke new theories on how gun violence impacts us all. This is a must read book, not only for person involved with the criminal justice or the study thereof, but for the general populace.

Nicole Sheppard, Attorney, Upper Iowa University