SOCIETY'S FIGHT FOR YOUTH

When statistics show 75 per cent of crime relates directly to the
drug trade and a majority of gang members are youth recruited from
middle class families, we need to question why these trends are
gaining momentum, and develop strategies to prevent this kind of behaviour.

During a City of Leduc council meeting, an RCMP constable gave a very
informative presentation on the problems with gangs (also called
criminal networks). Highlighting around 17 criminal networks in the
Edmonton area, of interest to police, the officer discussed the
membership numbers, ages of members and the level gangs are
categorized at based on the level of violence they exhibit.

Overwhelming, yet long over due for public ears, more and more we're
seeing these gangs succeed. Edmonton, per capita, is known as the
murder capital. This statistic is extremely tragic, yet ties to the
growing drug trade which is also linked to criminal networks.

In Alberta, money is everywhere. When cash rules criminal networks,
money is plentiful and drug use increases.

The officer also reported that the street costs for hard drugs, such
as cocaine, have decreased. Hard drugs are plentiful and cheap. It
only makes sense -- like anything else in our economy, drug dealing
is a business and the dealers are building their customer-base,
customer loyalty, in the form of addicts.

From the reports provided, we know that the majority of those
attracted to gangs come from middle class backgrounds. The question
is why? What attracts them to the gang environment and its criminal
activity? This is tough to answer. It's suggested that they are drawn
to the gangs as they offer money, acceptance, security and loyalty.

As stipulated by this province, we need to put more of a focus on
youth -- promoting positive decision-making skills, providing more
options for youth, such as culture, arts, athletics.

It isn't just parents fighting the battle -- it's society also trying
to fight the battle where some of these criminal networks are finding
successes. Bringing children into this world carries a much larger
responsibility than it did 30 years ago. Leaving youth to their own
accord isn't a viable options these days -- it takes proper guidance,
respect and direction when raising responsible contributing members
of this society.

The moment any one of those elements are lost, it leaves the door
open for someone else, or something else, to step in and fill that
void, hence the success of many gangs.

As care-givers, as parents, as a community we can reclaim this
responsibility and take a more active role in youth development.

By promoting different programs within our community, such as the
Boys and Girls Club, minor sports and arts programs, we're showing
positive reinforcement for a job well done.