Obama announced a $200 million, five-year initiative, "My Brother’s Keeper," to help black youth, particularly black boys, who are more likely to be suspended from school, less likely to be able to read, and almost certain to encounter the criminal justice system as either a perpetrator or a victim.
The president called for action from business leaders, members of religious groups, actors, athletes and anyone who can intervene in the lives of black men before they veer off course. He also challenged black men to do better themselves, and said they must not make excuses for their failures or blame society for the poor decisions they have already made.
We are glad to see a focus on helping males in America.
For decades, women of all races have advanced the opportunities for girls and we’ve seen girls excel in education and careers. At the same time, few men have stepped forward to focus on the plight of their male children. Boys are often left to struggle to make healthy choices without the strong guidance from fathers and community programs, lacking the support girls have enjoyed from their mothers, aunts, and many other adult women.
Obama’s remarks and his initiative are a step in the right direction.
