Crime has decreased in 2025. That’s based on statistics collected from police department websites throughout Philadelphia and the Southeastern Pennsylvania region. Through my many meetings with appointed and elected officials over the past several years, I believe that crime, corruption and gun violence will continue to decline as we move into 2026.

However, I also believe the current rate of decline remains too low and could be much higher. That responsibility ultimately falls within our political system. More programs and resources must be integrated into government efforts. State investments in gun-violence reduction and violence-intervention programs should continue, and the federal government should not cut funding for these services.

It is also up to us — the members of our communities who want meaningful change — especially when it involves our youth. We must emphasize that young people should not have access to weapons.

Local organizations that will continue contributing to this effort include the Race for Peace Committee, Urban Navigation and Men of Action Brothers of Faith.

Their leadership includes Race for Peace Founder Andrew Howell; Urban Navigation Founder Don Jackson; and Hameen Diggins, Urban Navigation Co-Founder and Vice President of Men of Action Brothers of Faith.

At both the political and organizational levels, Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor and CeaseFire PA Executive Director Adam Garber have been working diligently to address gun violence throughout the county and across the commonwealth. Their commitment is deeply appreciated throughout our state.

As an activist and advocate for these organizations, I have sent numerous emails to political representatives, law-enforcement agencies, and local media outlets to secure coverage and attendance for important events. This work has been essential, as it helps ensure more community members can participate in meaningful and impactful initiatives.

Additionally, these events often allow for increased police involvement, placing a positive spotlight on law enforcement as they engage with the public in supportive, noncriminal contexts.

We do not live in a perfect world, but current Republican and Democratic leadership must find ways to work together without resorting to rhetoric that leads to conflict and confusion for citizens. From the administration of President Donald Trump to that of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, leadership teams must collaborate to prevent chaos in our nation.

Strikes, shutdowns, and funding cuts can be avoided in the foreseeable future with a more balanced and cooperative approach to governance.

Leadership is also needed at the local level — from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel to officials in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. Expanding the mayoral cabinet and strengthening executive orders have played a vital role in stabilizing both the city and its surrounding suburbs.

In conclusion, our main focus must be to make our communities safer, stronger, and better — ultimately contributing to a more secure and stable economy. While our communities have seen significant growth, our primary goals remain reducing crime, increasing equity, and lowering the number of violent incidents.

Alim Howell

Upper Darby Township