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Young men talk about what they want from Indianapolis city leaders

Posted at 10:53 PM, Feb 12, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-12 23:58:14-05

INDIANAPOLIS — RTV6 is continuing an important conversation with young people trying to find solutions to the violence in Indianapolis.

The people RTV6 has spoken to say staying in an activity and off the streets is key to their survival.

The reality for these young men is they have already seen both side of what their future could hold. Single mothers who are raising them have instilled in them the need to get involved in something where a positive role models are helping to guide them.

PREVIOUS | Young men from Indianapolis search for solutions to violence

For young people like Reese Hamilton, 11, Dee Ross is someone who is helping him grow.

"How he as confidence how he is a growing person and he makes people feel better," Hamilton said. "He knows things, he can educate you. You can learn things from him."

RTV6 asked them what would like from city leaders to help their achieve their dreams. Here's what they said:

  • "Programs for young black men so they won't be on the streets," Hamilton said.
  • "But also make a genuine effort to try to introduce people to it," Brandon Kennedy said. "Sometimes its not always easy to bring people in but you gotta keep pushing and trying to get their attention because eventually they will come. If you try hard enough."
  • "I think the city needs more community involvement," Avontay Wray said. "I think they need to reach out to the community and actually try to help instead of talking about it, you feel me, and trying to put on a image."