Looking at the article this morning, “Taking
our streets back,” in regards to the “Saggy Pants” ordinance, I could not help
to think about the lack of focus. Councilman Carl Washington mentioned the
objective of the ordinance: “It was purposefully done for the enrichment and
betterment of our youth. We want to teach them how to be role models and follow
their purpose in life.” So legislating fashion will teach the youth of Penns
Grove to be role models and follow their purpose?
Youth
of Penns Grove live under bizarre conditions. I believe that elected officials
dismiss the fact Penns Grove community is a heavily impoverished community; the
unemployment rate in Penns Grove is a little over 48%; the state deemed the
school district as underperforming and no growth! Yet the focal point is “Saggy
Pants Ordinance.” I am not supporting youth wearing their pants low. I just
believe legislation is not the way to go to deter youth from this fad.
Since the betterment and enrichment of the
youth is a concern, then where is the socioeconomic development plan that will
bring forth jobs, youth programs and initiatives that will allow residents to
become home owners?
Meeting
with leaders in the civil rights community, I maintain the fact that the
ordinance is a violation of the people’s civil rights and civil liberties. I
will go on the record and say that if anyone is cited for so-called “Saggy
Pants Ordinance,” my organization, National Awareness Alliance will provide
legal services to help those whom rights are being violated.
Cultivation
of the youth and community comes with hard work and developing social programs,
not legislation of fashion. With all of the social ills of the community, I believe
this raise a question; Who are you taking the community back from?
Walter
L. Hudson Sr.
Chairman/Founder
National
Awareness Alliance
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