The persistent wave of violence on our city streets continues to haunt us every day. In 2022 alone, over 950 lives were tragically lost in Chicago, predominantly affecting Black and brown communities, as we struggled through the end of the pandemic. This rampant urban violence not only robs us of lives but also jeopardizes the future of potential next-generation achievers. It is imperative that we put an end to this cycle of street violence.

Mrs. Eyvette Newell-Dobbs and Mr. Michael Teague find themselves unwilling partners in a sorrowful society that nobody wishes to join. They are a devoted, God-fearing Black family who have taken on the role of “Parents with a Purpose,” driven by their desire to honor and celebrate the memory of their son, Darius Teague. Darius was a diligent and upstanding 29-year-old Army veteran who was tragically shot and killed while walking home late one evening last year. Regrettably, he became yet another victim of the senseless violence plaguing Chicago. Despite tireless efforts, the family has received limited information, few leads, and no justice for their fallen child. Darius was a dynamic Chicagoan and an exceptional son who is deeply missed.

Fortunately, a strategic collaboration between influential Aldermen from the West Side, other Chicago leaders, and the Dobbs-Teague family has resulted in an initiative to honor Darius’s short but impactful life and legacy. We are proud to announce the establishment of Honorary U.S. Army Veteran Darius Teague Way. On Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 1:00 pm, local officials, family, friends, and neighbors will gather at the intersection of S. Morgan St. and W. 14th St. (14th Street – 1400 South & Morgan Ave. – 1000 West), bordering the 25th and 28th Wards, for the public unveiling of an honorary Chicago street sign bearing the name of the slain U.S. Army Veteran Darius D’Arco Teague. The event will include a Memorial Balloon Release and Program to pay tribute to his life, which was tragically cut short after his valiant service to his city and country in the United States Armed Forces.

37th Ward Alderwoman Emma Mitts proudly joins this community-led effort to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of street violence on the lives and families of local residents. She recognizes the debt owed by the 37th and 25th Ward communities to this courageous family and others affected by violence, and emphasizes the importance of unity in facing challenging times together. Alderman Byron Sicho-Lopez of the 25th Ward echoes her sentiments, stressing the urgency of strategic partnerships between aldermen and the community to enhance the safety of neighborhood residents.

Prominent figures actively involved in this cause include 37th Ward Alderwoman Mitts, 25th Ward Alderman Sicho-Lopez, Chicago Police Department 3rd District Detectives, U.S. Army and Veteran’s advocacy groups, Crime Stoppers, Chicago Survivors, Chicago Build, and Grubhub, Chicago’s premier food delivery network. Together with Darius’s father, extended family, and friends, Mrs. Eyvette Newell-Dobbs expresses her deep gratitude for the tremendous support she has received. These justice-seeking efforts, such as the upcoming street-naming event near the location of the incident, bring her immense hope.

“I am currently blessed by the unwavering commitment to justice for my son through the Street Naming initiative. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Alderwomen Mitts (37th), Sicho-Lopez (25th), Ervin (28th), and Grubhub for their exceptional assistance. The Street Naming Ceremony and Memorial Balloon Launch this weekend serve to honor not only Darius but also all the families who have lost their loved ones. This on-ground strategy is designed to yield positive results. My deepest wish is that no more families in our city will be impacted by the scourge of gun violence. Guided by my unyielding faith, I am wholly committed and unstoppable. I refuse to be ruled by fear or defeat. I am grateful for the unity within our community,” shares Mrs. Eyvette Newell-Dobbs.

The Memorial Balloon Release for U.S. Army Veteran Darius Teague will follow a brief program. Additionally, there is an outstanding $15,000 reward for information leading to a conviction in this unsolved case.

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Chicago Defender Staff

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