Lack of involvement in positive activities. Minimal parental involvement in school. Low academic achievement and behavioral problems at school. The wearing and buying of excessive clothing in certain colors. Gangster rap music.
Gang activity is a broad community problem and requires broad community solutions.
Starting at the individual level, youths and potential gang members need positive role models and mentors, counseling and after school programs which include sporting and recreation activities. Families need affordable housing, parent education and family counseling. The educational community must provide a positive school culture, career education and economic opportunities. The broader community must provide more bilingual and multicultural police officers, social service and educational workers. A coalition of leaders from various groups and backgrounds must work together to prevent potential and growing problems in our community.