During a recent government meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding youth behavior and public safety. Deacon Earl Tate II opened the discussion with a passionate plea about the challenges facing today's youth, whom he described as lacking respect for themselves and others. He emphasized the need for parents and adults to reclaim their responsibilities in guiding the younger generation, warning that without intervention, violence among youth could escalate to a point where there may be no future generations.

Tate referenced Malcolm X's famous quote, \"the ballot or the bullet,\" urging community members to engage in the democratic process by voting and advocating for their rights. He stressed the importance of standing up for oneself and taking pride in one's community to foster a better environment for future generations.

Following Tate, Tony Lewis shared his frustrations regarding the perceived lack of police presence in his neighborhood, particularly in relation to rising crime and drug issues. He recounted personal experiences of theft and attempted break-ins, expressing disappointment in the police response times and overall community safety. Lewis highlighted the growing drug problem, likening his area to Kensington in Philadelphia, and called for increased police involvement to protect residents and businesses.

The meeting underscored a shared sentiment among community members about the urgent need for action to address youth behavior and public safety concerns, emphasizing the role of both community engagement and law enforcement in fostering a safer environment.