The leading cause of death among black males ages 18 to 24 here in America is homicide, according to a 2004 Centers for Disease Control report. Among others in the top 10 leading causes in the same report
is suicide. According to the U.S Census, more than 10 percent of black males within the same age group were in federal or state prisons at the end of 2005, and over the course of their lifetimes, 32 percent of black males born in 2001 can expect to spend time in prison.
Educationally, more than twice as many black females attend Georgia’s state colleges and universities than their male counterparts.
These are all gripping statistics that should spur us all to take notice, particularly in a local community that has seen acts of violent crime this year alone that have impacted this segment of our population. Fortunately, many among us have taken notice and are doing their part to alter the life’s course among these young men.
Among them is a new organization attempting to improve the life changes for African-American males in our region. Today, the Pi Eta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. launches its Baldwin County “Educate to Graduate — Stay in School” program. Its efforts have already been well received in nearby Dublin.
The theme of the program is “Go-to-High School/Go-to-College” and Alpha Phi Alpha is known for its academic success stories. It has also provided a rich legacy of advocacy and service for black communities
across the nation. The principles of scholarship, brotherhood, character and societal uplift represent its core beliefs.
At the Baldwin County home base, Pi Eta Lambda Chapter President Raymond Braziel says the group will cover a wide array of topics for
both youth and their parents in its program meetings: tools for academic achievement and problem solving, conflict resolution and prevention, oral communication skills, time management and building self-confidence, self-esteem and social awareness. Pi Eta Lambda will also present useful tips and information on college admissions, financial aid procedures and preparing for entrance exams.
Individual program components will be earmarked for both middle and high school students in grades six through 12. Come by Oak Hill Middle School today, beginning at 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., to sign in and take advantage of this important opportunity.
The clock is ticking on the question of how America treats its young black males and on how we react and respond to the issues hurdles they face in becoming productive members of society. As poet Langston Hughes once wrote, “The time ain’t long.” Let’s make good things happen before times runs out.
This organization and these young men need to know that Baldwin County residents are behind them and willing to offer their full support.
