My Say
Throughout my career, I have worked tirelessly as an advocate for our youth. From my experience as a credit union manager helping students secure loans, to working with the Community Board 5 to expand after school programs, and raised funds for the Greater Ridgewood Youth Council. I have tried hard to make the life of our youth better.
I have learned that the young people of today struggle with life in a way my generation never faced. Their challenges are only compounded by the downturn in our economy and the greater financial problems so many families face.
One group of young people has been particularly hard hit: teenage Latinas. According to a 2009 study by the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 15 percent of Latinas in the New York City schools have attempted suicide at least one time, compared with 6.6 percent of whites and 7.5 percent of blacks. The number is highest in Brooklyn, where 21 percent-nearly one quarter-of school age Latinas have tried to take their own life.
Latinas are at a higher risk for sui- cide because of their socio-economic conditions. Often recent immigrants or first generation Americans, young Latinas grow up in an environment at a crossroads of the old and new world. Faced with a cultural divide, Latinas regularly have one set of expectations at home and another at their schools and in their peer groups. Many times, these youths do not receive adequate supervision in their homes as parents must work multiple, low wage jobs to support their family.
We have a responsibility to address this problem. We owe it to our future to ensure we raise healthy, educated, and empowered young women. I will not disagree with the old adage; it does take a village to raise a child. As a policymaker, I am committed to doing my part.
In the State Assembly, I have made creating a better life for our youth my top priority. I am co-sponsoring legislation, Assembly Bill 8978, which would amend existing stalking law to include provisions covering electronic communications, effectively giving redress for victims of cyber-bullying. I have also supported extensive legislation covering victims of domestic violence, and worked diligently to make sure this legislation addresses the unique needs of the youngest victims.
Everyone needs to do their part to help our young girls. If you or someone you know needs help, there are resources available in our community. Groups such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (contact: 718-388-8649), the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (contact: 1-800-273-8255), Comunilife (contact: 1-718-364-7700) and the Samaritans of New York City (contact: 1-212-673-3000) are just some of the resources that can help.
Together, we will be able to give young Latinas the hope they need for a brighter future.
Editor’s note: Assemblyman Mike Miller represents the 38th Assembly District, which includes parts of Ridgewood, Glendale, Woodhaven, Richmond Hill and Ozone Park.
