GIVING

Addressing Youth Violence and Inequality: A Personal Perspective by Roger Drakes

As someone who’s still on their own journey of growth, I’ve always understood the fundamental difference between right and wrong. Sadly, not everyone is so fortunate. Over the years, I’ve witnessed how confusion about these basic values can lead to devastating consequences.

Back when these videos were filmed, the issue was gun violence in the UK. Fast forward to 2018, and knives have become the weapon of choice. The heartbreaking reality is that the perpetrators are getting younger and more violent, while politicians and authorities continue to feign ignorance about the root causes of this behavior.

Every time I hear about a young life lost to senseless violence, it breaks my heart. Although I now live in Los Angeles, my connection to the UK remains strong. I have many family members there, and I pray for their safety daily. It’s frustrating to repeatedly explain what needs to be done to break this cycle, but the truth is, the upper classes are reluctant to uplift those in the lower classes. Inequality persists because those with abundance often overlook the struggles of those with too little.

In poor neighborhoods, where joblessness, inadequate education, and low values are prevalent, often due to single-parent households or absent parents, the children need more than just words. They need hope. They need to know that they are valued beyond their current circumstances. These kids deserve to believe that they can achieve success, live past their 20s and 30s, and enjoy fulfilling, productive lives.