About NAVC

In 2009, Newark experienced a surge in crime, notably affecting many women, including Nakisha Allen. Her tragic loss ignited outrage within our community and led to the formation of what would become the Newark Anti-Violence Coalition, “NAVC.” In response to the violence, the Honorable Mayor Ras J. Baraka set a call to action for all community leaders to organize and rally. Our soon-to-be founders organized a protest at the intersection where Nakisha was victimized, stopping traffic and compelling the authorities to hear our voices. This movement grew as we held weekly vigils and rallies in response to each shooting, meeting 155 weeks in a row with an ever-growing number of supporters. NAVC, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is now volunteer run comprised of community members, many of whom hold full-time jobs. Our capacity- building efforts focus on understanding the flexibility needed for our work and finding ways to provide support and structure within those parameters. NAVC members regularly attend funerals, assist families in applying for victim compensation, support families in court and with relocation resources, and advocate for trauma-informed education in schools. Our efforts have earned city-wide recognition for addressing gun violence as a public health issue.

NAVC, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is now volunteer run comprised of community members, many of whom hold full-time jobs. Our capacity-building efforts focus on understanding the flexibility needed for our work and finding ways to provide support and structure within those parameters. NAVC members regularly attend funerals, assist families in applying for victim compensation, support families in court and with relocation resources, and advocate for trauma-informed education in schools. Our efforts have earned city-wide recognition for addressing gun violence as a public health issue.

Areas of Focus

The Newark Anti-Violence Coalition is firmly dedicated to addressing five significant demands.

  • 1
    Urgently demanding the recognition of street violence as a public health emergency and rallying all relevant parties to allocate the necessary resources to address this pressing issue.
  • 2
    Advocating for implementing a substantial jobs program and diligently enforcing existing mandates that require a specific percentage of Newark residents to be employed within the city.
  • 3

    Emphasizing the importance of enforcing the Amistad Bill in Newark schools, ensuring comprehensive teaching of Black and Latino history.

  • 4

    Encouraging street organizations or gangs to lay down their arms and establish effective treaties with the genuine support of the community.

  • 5

    Spearheading state-wide demonstrations to underscore the significance of community involvement, which is crucial for successful change within a community, and government support.

Meet The Team

Addressing Violence as a Public Health Issue

Cassandra Severe
Executive Director

Aughkay Green
Administrative Support

Samad Danzey
High Risk Interventionist

Tarrick Tucker
High Risk Interventionist

Membership

NAVC is an alliance of passionate community advocates working to drive positive change in Newark. As a member, you will have the opportunity to connect with influential community leaders and gain access to valuable local resources at little to no cost. Furthermore, your valuable input will play a pivotal role in shaping our initiatives, offering you the chance to significantly influence advocacy efforts in the City of Newark. We look forward to potentially welcoming you as a dedicated community member, united in our relentless pursuit of safety.