Community leader urges Durham County to continue My Brother’s Keeper initiative

DeWarren Langley, executive director of the Charles Hamilton Houston Foundation, told the Board of County Commissioners that he is “in strong opposition to the pause of the My Brother’s Keeper Initiative in Durham,” arguing the county should formalize an MBK Steering Committee and adopt a Boys & Young Men of Color Local Action Plan.

Langley submitted his comments during the meeting’s 30‑minute citizen comment period and said the initiative’s six priority areas remain urgently needed: ensuring school readiness, improving third‑grade reading levels, graduating young men prepared for college and careers, expanding post‑secondary training opportunities, preparing them for sustained workforce participation, and protecting them from violent crime while offering second‑chance supports.

Langley framed the request as both a racial‑equity and economic argument, saying the county risks leaving boys and young men of color “without the preparation, opportunities, or support they need to compete” as local industries demand higher skills. He called for the County to adopt measurable goals and produce annual reports documenting progress and outcomes.

The comment was delivered virtually in written form due to technical difficulties; the board did not vote or take formal action on the request during the work session. Langley said he looks forward to a written response from the County.