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Posted on June 2, 2007

Richmond Mayor Touts Green Movement
as Gang Prevention

RICHMOND, Calif. (KCBS) -- Richmond Mayor Gayle McLaughlin is calling for a regional approach to solving youth violence, and says the “green” movement could help keep young people from joining gangs. McLaughlin is the highest Green Party office holder in the country. She said clean energy and products are creating jobs that even youth can be involved in.

"There are solutions. With the proper funding we can bring forward the educational enhancement and job training programs. We can give our young people opportunity to learn the skills that are needed for good, clean green jobs, as we move into the new, green economy," she said.

McLaughlin is calling for funding that Congresswoman Barbara Lee said will be given for approved and proven programs.

"After school programs and mentoring programs like the Boys and Girls Club are just a few examples of what we must do at a federal, state and local level in partnership to fund," said Lee.