In Support of ABC
Since this blog does not accept comments, I have intentionally avoided controversial public policy issues. However, recent events that have resulted in compromising the safety and happiness of some of our most promising yet vulnerable residents is simply too important to evade.
Winchester is home to A Better Chance (ABC), an organization that places academically talented minority students in the Winchester school system. Currently, eight scholars live in the ABC house, attend Winchester schools and are members of a host family in the community. Since 1971, more than 70 scholars from ABC have graduated from Winchester High School. Most have gone on to receive higher degrees. It is fair to say that the Winchester community has been equally enriched from our ABC students. Recently, a dispute between a member(s) of ABC and other youths has escalated into a protracted and dangerous series of altercations. The most recent event has resulted in felony charges against individuals who have targeted our ABC students. The Police Department has taken this matter very seriously, but must proceed in a manner that is deliberate and consistent with our state and federal constitution and laws. At its meeting on October 15, 2007, the Board of Selectmen made individual and collective statements that confirm the Town’s commitment to supporting our ABC students and pledge to use the Town’s full resources to prosecute the individuals charged with assaulting them. Specifically, the Town will vigorously encourage and support the District Attorney to pursue the maximum criminal penalty allowed and to take other measures necessary to ensure the safety and well being of our students.
At the Selectmen’s meeting, ABC House Director Gavin Samms provided a compelling story about the vulnerability of young minority men living in an upscale community far from their hometown and families. At this critical juncture, these young men deserve the Town’s duty to keep them safe. Just as important, they need the community’s love and support.
Winchester is home to A Better Chance (ABC), an organization that places academically talented minority students in the Winchester school system. Currently, eight scholars live in the ABC house, attend Winchester schools and are members of a host family in the community. Since 1971, more than 70 scholars from ABC have graduated from Winchester High School. Most have gone on to receive higher degrees. It is fair to say that the Winchester community has been equally enriched from our ABC students. Recently, a dispute between a member(s) of ABC and other youths has escalated into a protracted and dangerous series of altercations. The most recent event has resulted in felony charges against individuals who have targeted our ABC students. The Police Department has taken this matter very seriously, but must proceed in a manner that is deliberate and consistent with our state and federal constitution and laws. At its meeting on October 15, 2007, the Board of Selectmen made individual and collective statements that confirm the Town’s commitment to supporting our ABC students and pledge to use the Town’s full resources to prosecute the individuals charged with assaulting them. Specifically, the Town will vigorously encourage and support the District Attorney to pursue the maximum criminal penalty allowed and to take other measures necessary to ensure the safety and well being of our students.
At the Selectmen’s meeting, ABC House Director Gavin Samms provided a compelling story about the vulnerability of young minority men living in an upscale community far from their hometown and families. At this critical juncture, these young men deserve the Town’s duty to keep them safe. Just as important, they need the community’s love and support.
posted by Mel Kleckner at 1:50 PM
<< Home