Organization leaders, educators, youth advisers and concerned parents met Tuesday at the Pannell Meadowview Community Center to hear Rayford Johnson speak on gang violence and the "thug" mentality.

About 40 audience members came in from all over the Sacramento area to be a part of this presentation.

This workshop was part two of six of the "Addressing Thug Life" workshop series held by the city of Sacramento and Faith Leaders Initiative.

Johnson is a photojournalist-turned-youth correctional adviser. He is also a licensed minister, author of the book, Thug Mentality Exposed, and director of the anti-gang initiative website, thugexposed.org.

Having spent time with inmates in California's correctional facilities , Johnson has firsthand experience with the effects of gang violence and has helped many with rehabilitation.

The workshop was the second part of Johnson's discussion, "Thugs Exposed," which referenced his book. His presentation focused on youth's inability to escape violent and sexual messages in music, the connection of drugs and violence and the actual roots of gang-related activities such as sagging and the word "thug."

Johnson's research on the subject is evident as he mixes scientific and historical data with positive spiritual messages.

"We know we are not going to solve these problems in six weeks, but we can increase awareness and share knowledge that may be beneficial to anyone genuinely interested in helping." said Khaalid Muttaqi, a workshop administrator.

Johnson answered questions throughout and the last portion of the presentation offered question and answer with the audience. A full dialogue occurred where Johnson, as well as other audience members, answered questions and provided feedback.

There will be four more parts to the "Addressing Thug Life workshop series:

March 9, George Sim Community Center, "Not Just the Boys" (Discussion of rising violent crime rates among young women)

March 16, George Sim Community Center, "How to Engage At-Risk Youth" (Ways to detect possible gang affiliation and communicate)

March 23, Robertson Community Center, "Running Effective Youth Programs" (Open forum for program managers)

March 30, Robertson Community Center, "Ins and Outs of the Penal System" (four members from different branches of the justice system discuss the penal system)

Muttaqi, a member of the Sacramento Department of Neighborhood Services, said the city of Sacramento is one of the worst cities in California for violent crimes. These workshops are planned as a strategy to provide local community members with the information they need to deter gang violence.