By Marcy Williams, cialis CEO Kollege and Kareer 4 Youth, salve LLC
It has become painfully obvious that youth (more specifically youth of color) are arrested or killed more often than any other race. The senseless murders of Trayvon Martin and Jordan Davis have sparked a firestorm of questions within the black communities. Parents and teens want to know, tadalafil “What are their Rights and Responsibilities”?
On Saturday April 26, 2014, The Saint Paul’s Baptist Church Kisura and Lions of Judah Mentoring groups (Dr. Lance D. Watson, Senior Pastor) decided to address those questions and more. Led by Samantha Thompson, the “Hoodies Up – Youth Summit 2014” included officials, attorneys and police officers who participated in the event. The event consisted of panel discussions, performances and Q&A. Moderated by Reverend Carla Jackson, Esq., Senator A. Donald McEachin and Delegate Joe Morrissey were among the group of panelists who offered their legal expertise to the youth who participated. The youth asked such questions as:
- Does Virginia have a stand your ground law?
- How do I know if my music is too loud? What exactly is a noise ordinance?
- What if I get into a fight defending myself – will I be arrested?
- If I am pulled over while driving alone, what should I do?
(Left: Judge D. Eugene Cheek, Delegate Joe Morrissey, Senator Donald McEachin, Captain Marty Harrison)
In addition, Judge D. Eugene Cheek provided perspective from the courtroom. His explanation of the legal doctrines and criminal law terms regarding self-defense made for an interesting discussion in terms of “breaking and entering”. One parent asked, “If someone breaks into my house and I shoot them, is that legal”? This led to a great debate around being “reasonably in fear for your life” and the use of deadly force. Captain Marty Harrison of the Richmond City Police Department provided a skit demonstrating traffic stop simulation. He stated, “The most important thing to do is to be cooperative and always keep your hands at the 10 and 2 position on the steering wheel”.
The participants received an added motivational jolt through Miss Ayo Morton’s poetic composition and dance from The Saint Paul’s Baptist Church B.O.M.B. S.Q.U.A.D
According to one parent, “this was a great event and I learned I had rights I did not know about – all youth need to know their rights”.
Overall the message for the day from Senator Donald McEachin was, “do what you have to do in order to get home safe”.
