Give our children the opportunities they deserve

Gangs have plagued Black communities across the country for decades. Finally, we have a chance to change our country's approach to this problem by offering young people real alternatives to gangs--instead of just locking them up and throwing them into a system that often turns them into hardened criminals.

The Youth PROMISE Act, introduced by Rep. Bobby Scott, is a bold attempt at change--and it needs all the support it can get to become a reality. Please take a moment to add your voice, and ask your friends and family to do the same.

Add your voice now!

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Here is the statement we'll send on your behalf. You can also add a personal comment in the box provided below.

Dear [Representative/Senator's name],
I am writing to ask that you support HR 1064 and its companion bill, S 435.
The Youth PROMISE Act acknowledges what we all know: given engaging ways to spend their time and positive, consistent mentors, young people will turn away from the dangerous activities that land them in jail and opt instead for healthy, law-abiding lives.
Incarcerating young people strengthens existing gang affiliations and teaches them how to be better criminals. The nation has more than enough laws that criminalize gang activity. H.R. 1064 and S. 435 offer effective ways to deal with youth gang violence, crime and delinquency. They also involve the larger community in keeping teens on the right track. Young people of color and low-income young people desperately need this support.
Please actively support the Youth Promise Act. The future of our communities and the health of our country depends on it.
Sincerely,
[Your name]