Mayors Gather in Birmingham to Discuss Violence Against Black Men and Boys
Mayors from across the country are in Birmingham this week for a conference addressing violence against African-American men and boys. It’s the third annual gathering for Cities United, a coalition of mayors formed to curb such violence.
Organizers say they’re discussing ideas and policy solutions so city leaders can take them back to their communities. That includes examining topics such as access to jobs and the juvenile justice system, but also trauma in neighborhoods plagued by violence. Philadelphia youth leader Jamira Burley grew up in a violent, drug-infested community. She says she watched all ten of her older brothers go to prison, including one shot and killed in 2005.
“These stories and these issues have to become personal for all of us for all to find solutions and opportunities for young people to be able to thrive and grow in their communities,” says Burley.
Birmingham Mayor William Bell says it’s incumbent on groups such as Cities United to convince people, regardless of political persuasion, that working to stop violence against black boys and men is a worthwhile cause to take part in.
Israeli settlers beat U.S. citizen to death in West Bank
A 21-year-old Florida man was beaten to death by Israeli settlers while visiting family in the West Bank.
FEMA removed dozens of Camp Mystic buildings from 100-year flood map before expansion, records show
Federal regulators repeatedly granted appeals to remove Camp Mystic's buildings from their 100-year flood map, loosening oversight as the camp operated and expanded in a dangerous flood plain.
In Myanmar, a rush for rare earth metals is causing a regional environmental disaster
A drastic increase in unregulated production of rare earth minerals in Myanmar is causing serious environmental concerns downriver in Thailand, as China's influence in the sector looms large.
No playing Spanish-language music: Many immigrants say they have new rules for driving
As the Trump administration's crackdown continues, traffic stops have become increasingly important tools of enforcement. It has led many immigrants to take alternate modes of transportation.
In the Texas flood zone, volunteers help reunite lost pets with their owners
Hundreds of pets have been reported missing after the devastating floods in central Texas. Volunteers have been combing through debris to help reunite them with their owners.
Where to find information about flood risk to your home
Many people in the United States receive little or no information about flood risk when they move into a new home or apartment. Here's how you can learn about your flood risk.
