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April 28, 2005

Youth Violence Is Not a Black Thing

Okay, maybe I'm feeling a little sensitive but a news piece on CBC radio this morning really irked me.

Toronto police had just returned from Britain after researching a highly successful youth violence prevention initiative. The Trident program urges "black youth" to support police in their efforts to reduce violent crimes by coming forward as witnesses. Toronto hopes to develop a similar initiative.

The problem I have with this piece is CBC's failure to mention that youth violence is occuring across all racial groups and that this program could benefit ALL youth regardless of race. Why the emphasis on black youth?

Below is a letter I wrote in response. I'll let you know if they respond.

Dear CBC,

Although I appreciate learning about the positive impact the Trident program has had on reducing youth violence in Britain, I'm concerned about the message you sent. As an African-Canadian and Torontonian, I believe solely linking violence to "Black youth" is nothing short of inflammatory and irresponsible.

Youth of all races are experiencing violence. My brother-in-law, a white youth from a middleclass family was shot by another white youth days before the nightclub shooting [a shooting in which a young black woman was killed]. Not surprisingly, the media failed to sensationalize this tragic event. I'll leave the question as to 'why?' to you. I already know the answer.

As you know, Toronto's black communities are still recovering from the illegal practice of racial profiling. My guess is the impact will be felt for years. Racially insensitive pieces like the one you aired this morning are of no help in the healing process.

A bit of advice: I'd agree with the officer that urban youth aren't a part of CBC's listening audience. Obviously, CBC caters to predominately white, middle-aged adults. If you can't help Canadians of colour, please do your core audience a favour and dispel with the myth that youth violence is a urban re: Black problem. Their children's lives depend on it.

Sincerely,

Jason Robinson

Posted by Jason at April 28, 2005 10:42 AM

Comments

Posted by: Benchley at April 28, 2005 12:13 PM