Q: What do you think is necessary to stop the adolescent gang violence problem in Boston? And in the US?

A: We have to admit that our culture is a culture of violence, that it was founded on violence and exists because of violence. We need to respect, love, and converse with young people to find out what they need. Many adults look at adolescents like we are the problem, but we believe that we are the solution. We need more recreational programs and programs like ours that give youth support. We need more job opportunities so we can stop looking to selling drugs to make money. Schools need to teach a curriculum of peace, justice, and violence prevention/conflict resolution to grades K-12. And finally, we need help in understanding and celebrating the positive aspects of our 10C’s: color, culture, class, character, and context; and confidence, courage, commitment, conflict, and community.

Q: What could schools do to help kids stay away from gangs/drugs/violence?

A: They need to stop closing their eyes to violence and realize that there is a problem. It is hard for a kid to come to school everyday with the thought that someone may be out to kill them. They must implement mandatory training for all staff on how to approach their 10C’s and then have them teach the philosophy to their students. Make youth feel safe by letting them know that you care not just about their grades, but also about them as people. And finally, include us in the discussion, and in decisions regarding our schools and our education.

Q: How can we get in touch with TAGV?

A: You can call our office at 617.825.TAGV (8248), or fax us at the same number. Our email address is TeensAGV@aol.com.