Did you know 1 in 4 teens know someone who has been shot? In fact, 2 of 5 teens will be shot themselves. Also, 3 in 5 teens worry that gun violence will break out in their schools. Nearly 40% of children live below the poverty level and most crimes occur in these neighborhoods. Black males make up 12% of the American population but yet, our prison population makes up roughly 75%! Studies show African American and Latino males are responsible for 50% of all violent crimes which includes: RAPE, MURDER, ROBBERY, and BURGLARY. Homocide is the #1 killer of Black males in between the ages 15-25. It is the #2 killer of Hispanic males.
A few weeks ago, Bobby Tillman was stomped to death in Atlanta. The alleged murderes were four other teens all because one of the boys got into a fight with his girlfriend. Reports say the teen got into a fight, but since he couldn’t hit a girl, the next male that walked by they would beat him. Sadly, it happened to be poor Bobby Tillman.
By: Mekhi Washington
We encouraged everyone to wear green at our school to show our support for putting an end to teen violence.
Bobby Tillman's senior pic
The alleged murderers
Bobby was just an innocent kid who loved life.
Great writing! It saddens me to see these statistics, especially on our young black men. I heard about the Bobby Tillman incident on CNN and was absolutely disgusted that these young men took an innocent life and ended their own in the process. These unnecessary crimes have got to stop and I am happy that you all are taking a stand in your school! Please continue to spread the knowledge to young black people.
ReplyDeleteL. Hamilton, SPED Teacher, Washington State
Let me first say that it is great to see young men striving to be conducive in the world of academia. Makes me very proud when young men especially African Americans work towards high scholarly attainments. However, the information that has been so well written is very alarming. I just don’t get it, how can we as a people continue to kill off each other and think that it makes you somebody? The young man (Tillman) just happened to walk back a horrible situation at the wrong time. Senseless crimes are not called for, and it’s becoming so horrific now that the A&E broadcasted show First 48 has begun filming in southern cities of Birmingham (Alabama) and Jackson (Mississippi). And, these two cities have some of the highest crimes rates in the U.S. this is deplorable and it must stop. I see in the picture that Mr. Tillman is displaying what seems to be his love for Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity, which I am a member of. It is a sad occasion that the young man’s life was taken so tragically and so soon. Continue to keep writing and telling your stories. Great Job guys!
ReplyDeleteFred Windham
Well said! I think the statement you guys made by wearing and encouraging others others to wear green showed the unity that this world needs to fight such violence. I also think we should make it a monthly Wearing of the Green event so that the importance of preventing violence stays in the minds (and hearts) of all of us at DMS. Just a suggestion. Keep up the good work, guys!
ReplyDeleteMs. D