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Elementary School Students March For Peace In Lincoln-Larimer

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Some young students are taking a stand in their community.

Today, they braved the cold and ice and marched for peace through the streets of Lincoln-Larimer.

The third, fourth, and fifth graders from Lincoln Elementary in the Pittsburgh Public Schools District planned and organized the entire stop the violence event.

"They've worked on this for six weeks, speeches, researching how to improve their community," Lincoln Elementary Principal Dr. Virginia Hill said.

Before they hit the streets hand-in-hand with teachers and Zone 5 police officers, the students held a rally in front of the school.

One student shared a story about his cousin being shot and killed in Homewood.

"Don't take matters into your own hands, let the police settle it," they said.

Other community leaders like Rep. Ed Gainey and Pittsburgh Police Cmdr. Jason Lando also took the microphone.

"I want each and every one of you to think of your own life and think about what you want to be when you grow up and whatever it is you want to be in your heart when you grow up, don't let nobody make you violent," Rep. Gainey said.

"If you ever feel like you're in danger or someone ever offers you drugs or wants you to do something you don't feel comfortable with, come find me," Cmdr. Lando said.

It was an empowering event for the students and one that left many feeling proud.

"They let us know that they want a safe community. They want to be able to go outside, play without worrying about drugs and guns in their community and they are also partners with the police. So, we're just thankful and we're hopeful for our future," Dr. Hill said.

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