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Speak Up! - View Question #592 |
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Question: How can I protect myself from a gang violence?
Answer: Gang violence is a very real threat to kids' safety in many neighborhoods. The best way to protect yourself from gang violence is to stay as far away from people who you know are related to gangs as possible. When it is not possible to do this, there may be some community resources that can help. For instance a YMCA or Boys and Girls Club or even a church might provide a safe haven from Gangs.
There are also things you can do in your community to help prevent gang violence. Think about:
Focus on your family and friends: If family and friends are the source of love, guidance, and protection that youths seek, they are not forced to search for these basic needs from a gang.
Teach someone about the risk of drugs.
Stay in school: young people who successfully participate in and complete education have greater opportunities to develop into reasonable adults.
Start a graffiti removal program: Graffiti removal reduces the chance that crimes will be committed. Since gangs use graffiti to mark their turf, advertise themselves, and claim credit for a crime, quick removal is essential.
Join a conflict resolution program: thesec teach people how to deal better with conflicts and help eliminate gang intimidation tactics.
Participate in recreational programs such as sports, music, drama, and community activities help build a sense of self-worth and self-respect in young people. Youths involved in such activities are less likely to seek membership in a gang.
Here are some more Gang Violence resources on the Internet:
-Stop Gang Violence
-Mothers Against Gang Wars
-Gang information from About.com
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