In communities across the country, children are being gunned down every day. In 2004, 2,825 children and juveniles died from gun violence, according to a report by the Children’s Defense Fund. That’s more than the number of soldiers killed in Iraq.
In Chicago, 20 teenagers have been killed this year; 24 last year. Victims of gun homicides are of all races; although, more than half of all fatalities are black.
In Los Angeles, gang members rather die heroes than statistics. Soledad Brock, a resident of Hollenbeck, in Los Angeles, lost her son Ronald Brock, 19, in front of her home. Ronald, a U.S. Marine, was shot to death after being asked, “where you from?” by a gang member. Seven months later, Soledad lost her other son, Angel Brock, in a gang-related hit.
Parents, we must help our children identify their enemy – “The Streets.” If they are able to recognize the snakes in the streets, they won’t be snake-bitten.
We must teach them that the streets keep them divided and fighting, one gang against the other. “You can’t live her, you can’t walk there.” These are fine examples of how the streets teach children ignorance and hatred.
Before it’s too late, teach your children the power of their will. They must use the same “will” to do right as they use to do wrong.
Their “will” will free them from being a slave to the street “street mentality.”
By Cedric Dean, Author of “How To Stop Your Children From Going To Prison.” (www.cedricdean.com )
