“The Trump administration’s termination of federal grants that support community violence intervention programs has a profound impact on our city, municipalities across the nation, and is both destructive and hypocritical on a massive scale. These are critical initiatives affecting innovative approaches like conflict mediation, therapy, counseling, and youth mentoring, which have significantly contributed to a safer and stronger Newark. They have broken cycles of tragedy, and restored and empowered lives.

“This decision is not just a financial setback; it is a profound moral failing. By withdrawing funding from programs that have demonstrably saved lives and fostered safer communities, the Trump Administration is turning its back on the very citizens these initiatives support and protect.

“We call upon the White House to reconsider these decisions and to recognize the value of investing in community-based solutions to violence. While Newark will continue to lead our state and nation by addressing public safety as a public health issue, our residents deserve continued federal support in building a safer, more resilient city.”