Baton Rouge councilman Anthony Kenney engages youth on community issues
The event focused on engaging with students, not only to discuss issues affecting the youth but also to hear their concerns and needs.
'I promise y'all, if y'all start having these better conversations with y'alls classmates about not going crashing out, doing these crazy stuff, it's going to be a lot more that we'll be celebrating and not crying about,' he said.
The students listened attentively, absorbing the conversation about what's happening in District 2, particularly regarding the recent youth crime.
'I would hate for your story to end because of foolishness, and that young man in Scotlandville story ended because of foolishness,' said Kenney. 'Just imagine y'all's mom gotta bury one of y'all; it's tough.'
During the session, students shared concerns about issues like infrastructure, youth resources, safety, and more. They spoke about the changes they would like to see in their community.
'We don't have a lot of sidewalks, you see kids walking on road, riding their bikes on road,' said Kennedi Alexander, a senior at Baker High.
Other concerns voiced by the students included the need for better roads, community centers, more restaurants, and initiatives to tackle gun violence. Many also expressed a desire for programs that could make a real difference for local youth.
'Mental health is a big thing here, and I just feel like programs like that would be a good like outbreak for kids to become you know, their better selves,' said Alexander.
Jarrius Collins, another student at the event, emphasized the need for improvement in North Baton Rouge, including the addition of grocery stores and better infrastructure.
'Baker and other cities need help with certain environments, like getting grocery stores on the streets and fixing roads,' he said.
Both students highlighted that they felt seen and valued, with Kenney emphasizing the importance of their voices.
'They want to raise their families here. You know, they want to live here. They don't want to leave the very place that poured into them. But we have to give them an opportunity to be a part of the solution and be at the table as we make the decisions for Baton Rouge,' said Kenney.
Kenney called on other city officials to actively listen to the youth, stressing that youth listening sessions are crucial for creating a better Baton Rouge.
'Need to make sure we do a better job and empowering our students to go out, be great and tell the story what they're going on in their own respected schools, communities,' added Kenney.
Kenney visited Scotlandville High School last week and emphasized that this is not a one-time event. He plans to continue visiting schools and ensuring that the voices of the youth are heard.
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