Compton community leaders push for peace to combat gang violence

COMPTON, Calif. (KABC) -- Spiritual and community leaders in Compton worked together with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department to promote peace in the city on Friday night as a way to fight back against gang violence.

Hundreds of people temporarily shut down 40 intersections throughout Compton to pray for peace.

"I really believe that this is a time that the city, if we come together more now than ever, to overcome the evil with good that we're going to see a change in the city, our communities and our culture," said Pastor Michael J.T. Fisher with Greater Zion Church.

The groups sang "We Shall Overcome" and were led by 100 different pastors. It's called the Push 100 Campaign and it's a reaction to the so-called 100 Days 100 Nights campaign started by gang members pledging a summer of violence.

"Push 100 really is an opportunity for us to take back our streets. There is more positivity and more good here on this corner, and it will counterbalance the evil that is happening in this city," said Rev. Omarosa Manigault with Weller Street Missionary Baptist Church.

Fisher, who was behind much of the campaign, hopes people will know that love always wins.