Summit on urban violence to begin in Chicago

A summit on urban violence is being held Thursday and Friday at Chicago State University.

The event was called for by Illinois congressmen Bobby Rush, Danny Davis and Robin Kelly in response to violence in Chicago. The three Chicago Democrats announced the event in Washington, where they were joined by Congressional Black Caucus members from other states. Organizers say the summit will both address violence and demand solutions.

The event, which is open to the public, is expected to draw at least 1,000 people, including elected officials, religious leaders, parents and members of local gangs.

Chicago police say the city had more than 500 murders in 2012. This year, there were 188 murders through the end of June. A majority were carried out with handguns.