*Blog Editor Note* NASW-NC did not support the legislation proposed in the 2007 Session because of the lack of prevention funding and the implications of third partities being able to identify suspects as potential gang members. This guilt by association could lead to further penalties.
Anti-Gang Initiative
The U.S. Department of Justice announced Tuesday that Wake and Durham counties have been chosen to participate in a "comprehensive anti-gang initiative" that includes $2.5 million in federal funding. The Triangle is one of four regions across the country receiving this latest round of federal money to thwart gang-related crimes. Wake and Durham will split the money 50-50. Deputy Attorney General Mark R. Filip said at a news conference at the Raleigh-Durham International Airport that $1 million of the funding will go toward efforts to prevent young people from joining gangs. Another $1 million will be used by law enforcement for criminal prosecution, with the remaining $500,000 used to help former gang members make a successful transition after they are released from prison.
(Thomasi McDonald, THE NEWS & OBSERVER, 5/13/08).
2 comments:
I'm really happy that the Anti-Gang movement has picked up steam. Civil rights activist Najee Ali has lead the charge in Los Angeles to try and get MySpace and other social networks to remove the profiles of users who promote gang activity. We're discussing it at Highbrid Nation and welcome you to join in the discussion.
I agree as well. Social Workers have been/continue to be very involved in serving those who have been in gangs. SOme of my own clincial experience as a social worker was with adolescents who were struggling to get out og gangs.
As NC continues ot think about where it is going policy wise, however, I think it is imperative we have a balanced approach. Locking up kids or eliminating any possible treatment options is not ok.
THanks for your post!
JR
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