For decades, Chicago has faced violence issues. It is no secret "The Windy City," especially its south side, is stricken with grief on a daily basis. According to the Chicago Tribune, as of July 28, there have been 1,254 shooting victims in Chicago so far in 2014. There were 2,185 shooting victims in all of 2013.
One Chicago resident taking a stand is Joakim Noah. The Bulls center brought his intimidation to video with a PSA that aired last Friday. The PSA, filmed in conjunction with Noah's foundation, the Noah's Arc Foundation, and the Chicago Sun-Times, challenged Chicago to "stand-up."
The PSA features Noah, teammate and Bulls superstar Derrick Rose, rapper Common and other Chicagoans speaking against violence. The Noah's Arc Foundation was started by Noah with his mother, sculptor and former model Cecilia Rodhe, and its goal "is to give young people more opportunities to make an impact on themselves and the community." Rodhe also makes an appearance in the PSA.
Noah unveiled the PSA at a Near West Side community center while interacting with a group of local Chicago kids. Alderman Walter Burnett explained to CBS News that Noah's community service is nothing new and that he does not only act in front of the cameras.
"These kids know Noah like he never crossed the street," Burnett said.
Noah has been with the Bulls since 2007 and is one of the most popular faces in the community. The son of Rodhe and French Open champion Yannick Noah, Joakim was born and raised in New York City.
But now, his fight is for The Second City.
"To me, personally, this is just as important as winning a championship," Noah said.
While showing his support for Chicago and trying to help build character in children, Noah hit the hardwood with some kids. As some viral videos showed, Noah did not hold back.
That is one way to show nothing is given.
-- Follow Jeffrey Eisenband on Twitter @JeffEisenband.
