NATCHEZ — A March Against Violence set for 4 p.m. Sunday is being held to recognize grieving mothers, an organizer said.

A procession will begin at the corner of Minor and Martin Luther King Jr. streets and proceed to the lot across from the Zipy gas station.

Jacqueline Marsaw, march organizer, said grieving mothers will lead the procession, but added that everyone is welcome to participate in a peaceful manner.

“We’re coming in peace; no bandanas and no gang signs,” Marsaw said.

Marsaw refers to grieving mothers as not only those who have lost a loved one, but also those who worry about the safety of their children daily.

“Every day they’re suffering,” Marsaw said. “They’re going through this every day thinking about their children. Grieving mothers and others are going through this.”

Natchez has seen a spate of violence in recent months, with shootings described by law enforcement officials as retaliatory in nature between feuding youth groups.

Marsaw said stopping violence should be a community-wide effort.

“Everybody needs to do their part,” Marsaw said. “It would be nice for everybody to play a part directing our youth. It takes a village to raise kids.”

Hot dogs and beverages will be offered after the parade, Marsaw said.

Marsaw said those grieving may call her at 601-443-1350.