Moving Toward Stability
by Veronica Golden
Veronica Golden
There is an African proverb that says, “The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” As I watched the events unfold on Delavan Avenue during the July 4 celebrations, that proverb came to mind. While many young people gathered simply to celebrate, the disorderly behavior displayed by some raised important questions that extend far beyond one holiday or one neighborhood.
Today’s youth are growing up in a world that is changing more rapidly than any generation before them. Technology, social media, community dynamics, and the lasting effects of recent societal challenges have all reshaped how young people experience childhood and adolescence. As society continues to evolve, our approach to supporting, educating, and engaging young people must evolve as well.
In my opinion, if we want to see lasting improvements in youth behavior, we must look beyond punishment and ask what we, as families, schools, and communities, can do differently. Here are four ways we can begin moving in the direction of more positive outcomes for our young people.
Every district should mandate a parenting class at the enrollment of their child into school. It’s not to shame parents, it’s to empower parents.
Having a TV in every room is not a flex. Black Friday specials got us thinking that being anti-social in the home is normal. Community should start at home.
Algorithms and marketing know no color. We are all addicted to our phones and need to take steps to reduce time on our phones and social media.
There are plenty of programs in Buffalo- if there was transportation to get to them, that would help.