Youth Summit Inspires Hope

The event began with a talk by Dr. Gary Slutkin proposing a question to the youth in attendance. Where does violence come from? This led the overall activities as youth were able to engage in meaningful dialogue after skits were presented to show the youth the dangers of violence through the perspective of the victim.

The open dialogue brought about gang members and those at risk of gang violence, together in an effort to still the violence that has plagued our streets. A young girl, probably a fifth grader, stood in front of a crowded audience to give her story. Approached after school by two female gang members, she was robbed and threatened to represent a gang. Her oldest brother, who would often pick her up after school, was now dead from gun violence.

Though no answers were promised by the young men and women who planned and participated in this event, the youth were given the clear message that they are not alone. Communities, organizations, and mentors were available to help them make sense of the senseless and make choices that would not involve violence and gangs.

I tip my hat to Zale and his crew for an event that brought the realities of the streets to light and for instilling hope where there is little. Great Job!