We define violence as the intentional use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or community, which either results in or has a high likelihood of resulting in injury, death, psychological harm, maldevelopment, or deprivation. - World Health Organization
We define violence as the intentional use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or community, which either results in or has a high likelihood of resulting in injury, death, psychological harm, maldevelopment, or deprivation.
- World Health Organization
The Milwaukee Blueprint for Peace is a community-driven agenda for addressing the complex factors that drive violence in our city. Rooted in a public health approach to violence prevention, this Blueprint was shaped by more than 1,500 individuals, elevating the voices of youth, community residents, and key stakeholders to call for strategic, aligned, and sustained investments and action to prevent violence, build resilience, and create a safer, healthier city.
The Blueprint for Peace was developed during a 10-month planning process funded through a generous grant from the Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin Endowment at the Medical College of Wisconsin, with supplemental support from the Tides Foundation and the federal ReCAST Milwaukee initiative. A diverse Steering Committee, appointed by Mayor Tom Barrett, provided leadership and oversight, with the City of Milwaukee Health Department’s Office of Violence Prevention (MHDOVP) facilitating the process.
Milwaukee’s Blueprint for Peace calls for strategic and long-term investment in improving conditions in areas of the city most impacted by violence. The work around the 6 goals and 30 evidence-informed strategies outlined will be steered by a multisector council with strong community representation with the MHDOVP continuing as convener and facilitator of this council. The development of the Blueprint for Peace is just the beginning. Milwaukee’s work will be responsive and updated as issues, priorities, and effective ideas emerge.