Birmingham, Alabama, August 25, 2025
News Summary
The Stop the Violence Classic in Birmingham featured Ramsay High School and A.H. Parker High School in a football game aimed at promoting peace and addressing gun violence. The event included a moment of silence for a coach tragically affected by violence and emphasized the importance of community involvement. The grassroots initiative started by students seeks to inspire future generations to commit to non-violence. Attendees received T-shirts with the message ‘Be the Peace,’ while programs like ‘Common Ground’ aim to teach conflict resolution in local schools.
Birmingham, Alabama hosted the Third Annual Stop the Violence Classic, where Ramsay High School’s Rams and A.H. Parker High School’s Thundering Herd faced off in a game that represented more than just football. The event aims to address the troubling issue of gun violence in the community, shining a light on its impact while promoting peace and unity among local youth.
The game, held on Thursday, was not only a season opener for both schools but also a poignant reminder of ongoing violence, particularly in light of the tragic shooting of Parker’s assistant coach, Demetrice Beverly, just a week prior to the event. A moment of silence was observed in his honor, underscoring the community’s shared grief and the serious atmosphere surrounding the match.
The Stop the Violence Classic was initiated by students three years ago, signifying a grassroots effort to tackle violence within Birmingham. This initiative aims to create a legacy of peace, encouraging current students and future generations to commit to non-violence. Attendees, including parents and alumni, expressed the need for such efforts to begin with families, emphasizing that violence affects not only safety but also the educational and personal futures of young individuals.
The atmosphere of the event, while serious, was infused with hope and aspiration, bringing the community together. Myra Newby, Ramsay’s head cheerleading coach, noted the necessity for discussions to resolve conflicts peacefully, indicating that violence has no place in educational environments. The game itself, marked by a spirit of camaraderie, also saw A.H. Parker maintain their winning streak in the series of classics. Chancellor Sparks, a senior at A.H. Parker, highlighted the role athletes play in using their platform to send out positive messages, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in stopping violence.
As part of the initiative, attendees received T-shirts with the message “Be the Peace,” symbolizing the collective effort needed to curb violence. Support for this event came from local, regional, and state officials, reinforcing a joint commitment to address violence in the region. Furthermore, the “Common Ground” program was discussed, which teaches conflict resolution strategies in all Birmingham schools, offering students necessary tools for handling disagreements without resorting to violence.
The next installment of the Stop the Violence Classic is scheduled for August 21, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Legion Field. Community organizer Melissa Bailey shared that this movement started from a student’s idea in response to the epidemic of gun violence, highlighting the proactive approach being taken by young residents of Birmingham. The passion displayed by the students during this event underscores the significance of sports as a means to mobilize community efforts against violence.
As the Rams and Thundering Herd took to the field, both players and spectators were reminded that this game symbolizes much more than competition. It serves as an essential platform for students to showcase their talents while addressing a critical concern affecting their lives and futures. The commitment to community peace and cooperation remains at the forefront of this initiative, setting a precedent that will hopefully resonate throughout Birmingham and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Stop the Violence Classic?
The Stop the Violence Classic is an annual football game between Ramsay High School and A.H. Parker High School aimed at addressing and combating violence in Birmingham, Alabama.
Why was the event started?
It was started by students as a campaign to raise awareness about gun violence and promote peace within the community.
What was observed during the event?
A moment of silence was observed for Parker’s assistant coach Demetrice Beverly, who was shot and killed prior to the event.
When will the next Stop the Violence Classic take place?
The next game is scheduled for August 21, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Legion Field.
What initiatives are included in the event?
The event includes distribution of T-shirts with the message “Be the Peace” and the implementation of the “Common Ground” program, which teaches conflict resolution in schools.
Key Features of the Stop the Violence Classic
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To address and combat violence in Birmingham, promoting peace and unity |
| Participants | Ramsay High School and A.H. Parker High School |
| Date of Next Event | August 21, 2025 |
| Key Activity | Football game as a platform for raising awareness on violence |
| Community Involvement | Supported by local, regional, and state officials |
| T-Shirt Message | “Be the Peace” |
| Conflict Resolution Program | “Common Ground” program in schools |
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Additional Resources
- WVTM 13 News
- WBRC News
- CBS 42 News
- ABC 33/40 News
- Birmingham Times
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- Google Search: Gun Violence Initiatives
- Google Scholar: Community Programs Against Gun Violence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- Google News: Stop the Violence Classic
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
