A Chicago pastor organized hundreds of men to declare a South Side neighborhood a violence-free zone during a community event held Sunday.

The gathering, called the 1000 Men Unity Gathering, brought together participants from across Chicago in an effort to address neighborhood violence. The event was organized by Project H.O.O.D., a community organization focused on violence prevention and community development.

Attendees included pastors, fathers, mentors and former gang members who came together for the unity initiative. The diverse group of participants represented various segments of the community working toward violence reduction.

The event took place in a South Side neighborhood that has experienced ongoing challenges with violence. Community leaders used the gathering to make a symbolic declaration establishing the area as a violence-free zone.

Project H.O.O.D. has been active in Chicago community organizing efforts, focusing on bringing together different groups to address local safety concerns and promote neighborhood stability.