Washington, D.C.-Today I voted No on extending youth curfews. However, let’s be clear. I won’t tolerate violence, and I won’t back down on accountability. Anyone who commits a crime must be held responsible. We’ve seen incidents like the Rhode Island Avenue assault, destruction at Benning Road, and Halloween at Navy Yard that are unacceptable and must be addressed. But curfews are a quick fix, not a lasting solution.

The evidence matters: Department of Justice studies show DC curfews have not reduced juvenile arrests, and some research suggests they can push crime into other times and places. We can’t simply blame Go-gos or other activities because that does not address the underlying issue without breeding resentment from our young people. They have expressed to us what they need and that means investment. 

 Real safety comes from addressing root causes, not just restricting when kids can be out. If we are serious about public safety, we must invest in people first. That’s why I’m pushing for real, longer-term solutions: safe and stable housing for families, expanded trade programs that offer young people concrete paths to good jobs, and a citywide mentorship network to guide and support our youth. I’ve fought for a free MSW and Master’s in Counseling program at UDC because mental health is foundational to safety.

We can point to examples that show what works when we invest in people. Baltimore’s progress specially with Youth shows lower homicide rates, and reduced gun violence demonstrates that empowerment and opportunity matter more than punishment alone. If we commit to trust, opportunity, and mentorship here, we can achieve lasting safety too.

I’ll keep fighting for these solutions and I need leadership and community support to turn them into reality. Safety isn’t just about enforcement; it’s about people, trust, and a village that invests in its children.

“A youth who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” Let’s embrace our youth with opportunity, so we don’t have to fear what they might do.