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Circle of Brotherhood: A Beacon of Hope in Violence Prevention Fighting to Survive
In the Mercy’s Corner podcast, Brother Lyle Muhammad, Executive Director of Circle of Brotherhood, shared the history, mission, and critical challenges facing this organization founded in 2014 in Miami. Recognized for reducing gun violence in vulnerable communities, Circle of Brotherhood now faces an existential threat after the sudden cancellation of its federal funding.
📺 Watch the full interview here
Origins: From Despair to Action
It all began in 2012 when Detective Ford, exhausted after decades of handling homicides in Little Haiti and Liberty City, confessed: “I don’t know what else to do.” That moment sparked a historic meeting led by Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones. From it emerged a commitment: to heal from within, united.
Mission & Achievements: A Holistic Model
Under the motto “Black Men Solving Our Own Community Problems,” Circle of Brotherhood takes a comprehensive approach:
- Violence reduction: Through street outreach, they’ve reduced crime by 23-30%, as confirmed by Police Chief Matty Morales.
- Reintegration: Supporting formerly incarcerated individuals with mentorship and jobs.
- Youth development: Community coaches organize educational and recreational programs to steer youth away from crime.
- Total inclusion: From entrepreneurs to returning citizens, their model thrives on unity and service.
In 2023, their work earned a $2 million federal grant from the Department of Justice, amplifying their national impact.
“AMERICA IS UNRAVELING”
Muhammad’s stark warning to politicians who’ve lost their moral compass:
“To every commissioner and politician: This is no time for games. Your decisions carry spiritual consequences. Treat people with justice—or face the fallout. Remember: ‘No weapon formed against the righteous will prosper.’ Choose your side wisely.”
His urgency is palpable: current policies are collapsing even in the communities they pledged to protect.
Current Crisis: Funding Cut & Political Silence
On April 22, 2025, Circle of Brotherhood received a federal email canceling their funding—freezing $608,000. They were among 365 organizations affected. The move came with no warning, just 30 days before summer, the peak season for violence prevention.
Muhammad revealed that neither the mayor nor commissioners responded to seven formal requests. “Gun violence is a political football. They prefer cameras over real solutions,” he said, highlighting the disconnect between public praise and private neglect.
National Mobilization: Day of Action
In response, Circle of Brotherhood called for:
- A march in Washington D.C. on May 7
- A rally in Miami
Demanding transparency and funding restoration. “Our work saves lives. This isn’t a political game,” Muhammad stressed.
Community Voices: The People Speak
Residents voiced outrage:
- “I saw how they ignored Circle at the city hearing. It was shameful.”
- “Politicians protect their interests, not ours.”
A Call for Investment in Humanity
Circle of Brotherhood embodies a painful contradiction: a national model facing local indifference. “Social justice can’t rely on volunteers. We need investment in humanity,” Muhammad concluded.
Measurable Impact:
- 23-30% crime reduction in targeted areas
- 50+ employees and hundreds of volunteers at risk
- $1 million managed for housing via ARPA funds
Call to Action
- Join the May 7 mobilization in D.C. AND Miami.
- Demand accountability from local leaders.
“Justice isn’t charity. It’s investment in shared humanity.” — Brother Lyle Muhammad
Follow @CircleOfBrotherhood for updates.
Share this story. Silence = Complicity.
#CircleOfBrotherhood #FundTheSolution #JusticeOverPolitics #NoWeaponFormed #MiamiOnFire
Credit: Mercy’s Corner | Shared for awareness, not endorsement.
