HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-09-10 Correspondence/ '
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Neighbors need
A lot is being discussed and debated
about a proposal to pass a curfew and
delinquency ordinance in Iowa City.
As someone who works with juve-
niles and families in town I recogtuze
some deep seeded problems exist. How
will a curfew ordinance solve the prob-
lem? Iowa City now is faced with a sec-
tion of the community entrenched in a
cycle of generational poverty, violence
and emerging youth gangs.
The so-called youth gang issue is not
hopeless. Many of these kids are far
from hard core gang members and still
can be reformed. It is very unlikely the
ordinance will deter future delinquent
behaviors. I think the ordinance is just a
panacea. I certainly would not argue
against acurfew-if it is equitable, how-
ever, we need to be proactive instead of
reactive.
There are many models used in other
communities that can work in Iowa
City. It involves residents in the commu-
nity, parents, schools and police work-
ing together.
We have great schools, the
University of Iowa and still a pretty safe
town so let's come together and fmd
real solutions. Passing new laws then
zealously overpolicing and charging
kid's for misdemeanor and statutorg
offenses will not deter delinquent
to take charge
behavior. Research shows overpolicing;'.
communities only exacerbate the prob='
lems by inflaming citizens. There has to,
be a balanced approach.
The sohrtion lies-with the communi
ty taking charge, violence prevention
programs, community policing and "
neighborhood watches must be
employed. As a kid, I witnessed elderl~.~~
women in the Bronx chase drug dealers."
and gangs away.
If you were °wilding out" iri the`
"hood," the ladies who worked tfie'
neighborhood watch would call your
Mama. People have to get over their
fear, communicate and get to know
each other. The residents have every
right to be angry, however fmger poinC'--
ing is futile.
The police can not be every where at -~
once, especially during football games.
If responsible parents and residents in
the neighborhoods take charge, work: _
with the police, schools and others i?>
the community things will change for .
the better. I will be first in line to join
them in a neighborhood watch. If we..
want to save the east side neighbor- .
hoods from the inner city syndrome;
then the solution will require some
courage and effort from us all-
lowa City resident Hamza Sharif Omar is a
student advocate far South East Junior High.. , ,