It is becoming increasingly apparent that our young people are in crisis. I know this from my own experience having dealt with a nephew who spent three weeks in jail. He was in jail for being with the wrong person at the wrong time. His friend, also about 19, allegedly took five dollars from another young man. I was heartbroken when I found out my nephew, 19, was sitting in jail like a caged animal. I was even more hurt when I had to go visit him on certain days at certain times and put money in a machine if he need toiletries. Something is wrong in America.
He has never been in any trouble. And then when I went to the court hearing, it was even more heartbreaking too see them bring my nephew in from God's knows where. There is a place in the jail system for people who knowing break the law, but I believe strang things are happening in Memphis, Tennessee with the justice system. I remember hearing a news report where some youth in DeSoto County, Mississippi defaced a school stadium or something with a lot of graffiti. These children were basically given a slap on the wrist and had to perform community service work or something of that nature. But in Memphis, Tennessee, they are playing for keeps with our young people. I tell students all the time that they will play with you until you turn 18. After 18, they are playing for keeps.
I believe that police might have too much time on their hands when they can go and pick up a student at his school over $5.00. I most times feel the police do a good job. I have had to call them in times past when someone broke into a rental property. I knew whose house the man went to but they gave me all kinds of reason as to why they couldn't arrest. And even some times they would come so late that it gave the man time enough to get away. Something is wrong in America.
I am telling anyone who will listen. If a non-profit asks you to give to an after-school program, do it. Everytime United Way, Combined Federal Campaign, Girls and Boys Club, Girls Inc or Big Brothers and Big Sisters asks for a donation, help them. I worked with non-profits for about 11 years. I know from research that children are at the greatest risk between the time school is out and until the time their parents come home from work. We're talking between the times of 2:30 to 6 p.m.
After-school programs provide safe havens for children. If they are involved in an after-school program or cheerleading and basketball or soccer, etc., they are less likely to become a victim of crime or commit a crime and be involved in sexual activity or use drugs.
This November, vote for our children. Who has shown that they are concerned about our youth. Must we continue to let society lock up potential or will we make a conscious effort to elect someone who cares about the least of these thy brethren.
