Toronto Star Article: Are Black Parents To Blame For Young Black Males Dying Of Gun Violence In Toronto?
Ephraim Brown: Attack roots of gang crime
There is no way to return 11-year-old Ephraim Brown to the arms of his grieving mother. But there might have been some small solace for his family had those who shot the boy through the neck had been jailed for murder. Instead, the two men accused of the child’s killing were found not guilty earlier this week.
It’s not clear if anyone will ever be brought to justice for this crime, which illustrates the depth of the crisis confronting many in the community. Violent crime is taking a devastating toll, especially among the poorest and most vulnerable. Under these circumstances — even at a time of cost-cutting — it is vital that Toronto preserve and expand preventive programs designed to keep young people from resorting to crime.
Violence and fear are intimidating entire neighborhoods. It is telling that scarcely any witnesses to Ephraim’s death came forward to talk to police, even though an innocent child had been shot down while attending a birthday party. Rather than being shocked into putting down their guns, a recent spate of shootings shows that — if anything — the street gangs have become more brazen since Ephraim died three years ago.
Young black males have been the victims in an estimated 26 of 29 gun deaths in Toronto this year. Several were teenagers. And most of those who appear to be doing the shooting are also young black males. Church leaders and other pillars in the black community have been outspoken in urging an end to this self-destructive gunplay. But they need help. Police are doing their best to crack down on gangs and, under the leadership of Chief Bill Blair, have put special emphasis on community policing and reaching out to local youth.
Municipal and volunteer programs have a place, too, by giving young people in troubled neighbourhoods access to recreation, job training, mentoring and other constructive services. These are a long-term, preventive social investment and are well worth continuing. In particular, Mayor Rob Ford should strive to preserve the $13 million Partnership Opportunities Legacy program, assisting Toronto’s 13 most underserviced areas.
Nothing can bring Ephraim Brown back. But enhanced investment in strategies and programs designed to stem the spread of gang life might just keep other innocent children from sharing his fate.
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