1

RMYC VIOLENCE PREVENTION PROJECT REPORT

Prepared by: The Regional Multicultural Youth Council Multicultural Youth Centre, Victoriaville Mall 711 E. Victoria Avenue Thunder Bay, Ontario P7C 5X9

With the support of: * * * The Ministry of Northern Development and Mines The Thunder Bay Police The Multicultural Association of Northwestern Ontario

May, 1998

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 1. Violence Prevention Project: Goals and Objectives

2.

Synopsis of Project and Forum

3.

Survey Highlights: A B C D E Youth & Violence Prevention Youth and Family Violence Youth and Date Rape Youth and Gang Violence Youth and Personal Safety

5 5 7 9 11 13

4.

Proposed Action Plan: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Violence At School Date Rape Gun Control Curfews Uniforms Young Offenders Violence In the Community

16 17 18 18 18 19

8.

Youth Gangs

20 20

5.

Concluding Comments

22

6.

Violence Prevention Project Resource People

23

7.

Financial Statements

24

8.

Newspaper Articles

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VIOLENCE PREVENTION PROJECT REPORT

INTRODUCTION: The Regional Multicultural Youth Council (RMYC) is concerned about the growing incidents of violence in our society. We are aware of students who are afraid to visit malls, go to dances or walk alone for fear of being assaulted. Others are afraid to even attend school for fear of being beaten up. We have also heard of children and youth, boys and girls who have been sexually assaulted. Many are afraid to report the cases for fear that no one will believe them, or because things will get worse. The RMYC feels that violence has to stop. Children have the right to live a life free of violence. Personal safety should be promoted to create a safe environment for everyone to live in, and empowering the youth to break the cycle of violence will make a difference. To mobilize the youth and involve them in a violence prevention campaign, the RMYC organized a project with the following goals and objectives:

GOAL:

Raising awareness through open discussions and dialogue on the issues of assault and encouraging each other to break the cycle of violence among our peers, in our communities and the society at large.

OBJECTIVES: * To bring youth from different backgrounds together to identify their concerns about violence in society and invite resource people to make presentations and facilitate discussion that raise awareness on the problem. * To focus on family violence, date rape, gang violence and youth violence, discuss the known causes, and come up with suggestions for possible solutions to the problems. To enlighten the participants on the impact of violence on children and youth and how this affects their well-being. To identify community resources and services available to promote personal safety, and facilitate healing for victims of violence and sexual assaults. To share ideas to reduce conflict and aggression and discuss alternatives for individuals, families and groups to solve arguments without violence. To make recommendations on ways youths can work together to promote anti-violence, prevent assaults, promote happy families, safe schools and safe communities--where we all get along. .../4

* *

* *

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SYNOPSIS OF RMYC VIOLENCE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN

The RMYC Violence Prevention campaign was initiated by youths worried about incidents of youth-to-youth violence and the emergence of street gangs in Thunder Bay and across the region. With financial support from the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, Thunder Bay Police Services, and the Multicultural Association of Northwestern Ontario (MANWO), the RMYC set up a team of young leaders to plan and organize violence prevention initiatives. During the project, youths of diverse backgrounds and representing different schools held focus groups at the Multicultural Youth Centre in Victoriaville Mall. They discussed problems of family violence, sexual assault, youth street gangs, alcohol and substance abuse and personal safety issues. The youth were also concerned about the effectiveness of current methods for dealing with young

offenders--especially those committing violent crimes. The highlight of the project was a forum attended by over one hundred and fifty high school students and delegates from the Boys and Girls Club, Harbour Youth Services, Boy Scouts, Red Cross Youth Council, Youth Employment Services, and Thunder Bay youth group homes. RMYC facilitators were assisted by professionals to lead the sessions. They included staff from a crisis-home, a social worker, health nurse, police officer, and a justice of the peace. Topics covered included: family violence, date rape, youth gangs, personal safety and peer mediation. The suggestions offered to break the cycle of violence included good parenting skills, education, lifeskills, healing, self-awareness, healthy lifestyles, individual accountability and social responsibility. Strategies for violence prevention involved enhanced law enforcement, curfews, gun control, community involvement, peer support, effective social programs, and youth centres. But funding was identified as a major barrier to sustain services. Thunder Bay Police Chief Leo Toneguzzi was the guest speaker. He delivered a key-note address to a large evening audience with regional guests, representatives of racial minorities, the Aboriginal community, women's groups and MANWO board in attendance. The theme of his address was a need for the community to work together to stop violence. The Thunder Bay Police had introduced community policing to bring officers closer to people, and the youth were challenged to assist the police to prevent juvenile crime. To gather information on the youths' perception of violence and strategies to deal with sexual assault, participants were asked to complete several questionnaires. Feedback from the survey provides information that can help to understand the situation from the youths perspective, and make a difference. The youth were also asked where they go for help. Friends were rated highly across the board as confidantes on all violence related matters. Unfortunately, if the friends were bad influence, more problems occurred. The RMYCs work with the Police was bearing some results as more youths were now trusting police offices, and felt comfortable to approach them -- compared to past years. School principals and teachers are at the bottom of the list together with social agencies and youth groups. A summary of the findings from a sample of over one hundred and fifty youths and an analysis of the responses appear below. .../5

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SUMMARY OF SURVEY
A. YOUTH AND VIOLENCE PREVENTION

1.

Do you feel violence is increasing in our society? YES - 83% NO - 12% UNDECICED - 5% What kind of violence bothers you the most? (Not Ranked -- NR) - sexual assault (rape) - violence against women and children - assault and deadly weapon violence, murder - "copycat" violence from media - youth violence - family violence, racial violence - mental/emotional violence - school violence - all violence

2.

3.

Have you seen or experienced any violent incidents(s)? YES - 75% NO - 12.5% UNDECIDED 12.5% If yes, briefly explain what happened. (NR) - kids were bored then looked for a fight - beatings - mugging - robbery - sexual violence, rape - bar fights - pushing others around - bullying in high schools - police brutality - family violence - attacking by discrimination - vehicle vandalism and burning - racial discrimination - ganging up on police.

4.

5.

Do you think the incident could have been prevented? YES - 63% NO - 27% UNDECIDED - 10%

.../6 -6-

6.

If YES, how could the situation have been prevented? (NR) - education and awareness - not calling other people names (racism) - not being alone - stop drinking (closing bars) - supervision by adults - more confidence and cognitive skills - better parenting - more community involvement - talking rationally and mediation - avoiding bad situations

7.

Who would you go to for help? Confidante Person or Agency Friend 58.8 Brother/sister 9.6 26.8 9.6 24.4 17.1 21.2 17.1 9.6 31.7 7.3 19.5 7.3 24.4 7.3 confidante (%) Trust in Most Least

Police

Parents

Youth Groups

Social Agency

Educational Counsellor School Principal

Teacher 4.9 Doctor 4.9

26.8

21.2

9.6

COMMENT: A majority of youths feel that violence is increasing in society. This may be due to press coverage of violent incidents and awareness of assaults taking place in the community. At our Youth Centre, we are seeing more black-eyes, scrapes and bruises and frequently hearing of fights at dances or parties where alcohol is involved. Anger, stress, boredom and arguments over girlfriend/ boyfriend, debts and name-calling are common reasons for fights, and it is obvious that youths lack the skills to resolve problems without using force. Violence on TV may also be a factor. Friends (peers) topped the list of who the youth trust the most to help in case of violence. Siblings and the police are next. Compared to past surveys, the youth now feel more comfortable to go to the police. Ironically, even though violence affects schooling adversely, students are not reporting incidents to teachers and principals--who are at the bottom. Therefore, educators may not be aware of the problem and the impact this has on the victims' performance. .../7

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B. YOUTH AND FAMILY VIOLENCE

1.

Do you feel that family violence is a growing problem? YES - 75% NO - 12% UNDECIDED - 13% Have you personally seen incidents of family violence? YES - 69% NO - 28% UNDECIDED - 3%

2.

3.

In your opinion, what are the effects of family violence on children? (NR) - traumatization - repetition of violent behaviour/violence cycle - dysfunctional relationships - aggression - bad temper - low self-esteem and feeling worthless - think that violence is okay -- acceptance of violence as normal - fear - insecurity - self-destructive behaviour - attitudinal problems

4.

What do you feel are the reasons for violence? (NR) - stress - anger/temperamental - low self-esteem - hurting others to make you feel good - miscommunication - witnessing acts of violence among the family - insecurity - mental/emotional problems - ignorance -- lack of education - poverty - no resources - power and control - poor coping skills - jealousy - society's downfall - neglect - alcoholism

.../8

-85. How do you feel we can break the cycle of family violence? (NR) - education and awareness - early intervention - counselling - support - empathy - coping skills - anger management

- better communication - prevention - give children options - share opinions - re-education for offenders 6. Who would you go for help? Confidante (Person or agency) Friend 53.1 Brother/Sister 25.0 37.5 12.5 31.2 Social Agency 14.6 31.2 18.8 21.9 Educational Counsellor 34.4 21.9 28.1 18.8 Youth Groups 37.5 18.8 28.1 in confidante (%) Least Trust Most

Police

Parents

Doctor

Teacher

15.6 School Principal 37.5 12.5 31.2 COMMENT: A majority of youths admit that family violence is a growing concern. Many say that they have personally witnessed incidents of violence at home and among family members. Unfortunately, some of those caught up in the cycle feel that nothing can be done to stop it. There is a code of silence in some situations, and no-one will talk. Children in particular are often afraid to rat on their parents. Friends and siblings topped the list of people youths confide in to deal with family violence. Police and social agencies are next. This may be attributed to new policies for police to deal with incidents, community initiatives to stop spousal abuse, and government campaigns to educate the general public about family violence. With some families having stepfathers/mothers and common-law spouses, children often went to one of the 'original" partners for help. Youth groups such as the RMYC and educators are at the bottom of the list.

.../9

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C. YOUTH AND DATE RAPE 1. Do you know what date rape is? YES - 100% Do you think date rape is common among youth? YES - 94% NO - 3% UNDECIDED - 3% If YES, what generally happens? (NR) - situational -- confined places alone

2.

3.

- misinterpreted affections by male - forced to sex without consent - parties with alcohol and drugs - violence 4. Who is to blame? Boyfriend - 30% Girlfriend - 5% Both - 65%

5.

Can anything be done to prevent date rape? YES - 97% NO - 3% If YES, what do you feel can be done? (NR) - education -- starting at early ages - awareness of potential problems - protection from vulnerable situations - avoid negative relationships - workshops - know how to defend yourself - more self-control - limit intake of alcohol to stay in control of situations - more cautious of partner - do not be alone with anyone you feel uncomfortable with - give youth options - teach assertiveness - build self-esteem - set personal boundaries - better communication - "buddy" dates

6.

.../10 - 10 7. Who would you go to for help? Confidante (Person or agency) Friend in confidante (%) Trust Most Least 81.3 15.6

Brother/Sister Police Parents Doctor Social Agency Educational Counsellor School Principal Teacher Youth Groups 9.4

40.6 18.8 40.6 28.1 37.5 34.4 34.4 28.1 21.9 28.1

15.6 6.9

40.6 9.4 37.5

9.4

34.4

COMMENT: All youths participating in the survey are aware of what date rape is all about:--the use of force, coercion, pressure, misinterpretations, nonconsensual sex, the setting and environment. A significant number blame boy-friends for the problem, but the majority felt that both the boyfriend and girlfriend are at fault. The consensus is that both parties should be equally responsible for the problem--raising concern over whether the victim is equally to blame. It was also mentioned that date rape can occur between same-sex partners--extending the problem beyond the common male/ female relationships. Education and knowing what is going on around you is seen as an essential component to prevent date rape. Information on tactics used, reasons, excuses and substances such as date rape drugs, alcohol etc. Common sense -- such as being wise to predict risky situations and taking precautionary steps helps to prevent problems. Friends are at the very top receiving more than twice the total responses of those most likely to be approached on matters related to date rape. Siblings are next, followed by the police, parents and doctors. This can be attributed to the legal issues related to the crime as well as the health risks. With awareness on the potential of pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and HIV infection, it is apparent that health personnel (doctors) are high on the list.

Social agencies, education counsellors, teachers, school principals and youth groups such as the RMYC are at the bottom of the list. Youth groups are not approached because many youths feel that they are for fun and games and not prepared to deal with serious family and assault matters. They are, however, prepared to use youth groups for peers support in sharing circles.

.../11

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D. YOUTH AND GANG VIOLENCE 1. Do you feel there is gang violence in your community? YES - 75% NO - 15% UNDECIDED - 10% If yes, do you know anyone who was a victim? YES - 33% NO - 50% UNDECIDED - 17% If YES, briefly explain what happened? (NR) - he got beat up for his jacket - jumped and robbed by three girls - beat up from walking to school - victim left town after being assaulted at bus stop - bike stolen and the kid was beaten and hospitalized - leaving dance and get jumped. 4. Can anything be done to prevent gang violence? YES - 88% NO - 12% If YES, what do you think should be done? (NR) - getting more activities for youth to keep them busy - programs to build self-esteem and community pride - curfews - education in early years, street-gang prevention workshops - learning lifeskills for meaningful careers and employment - talking openly to kids about their problems - respect for the law and property - school programs against gangs and bullies

2.

3.

5.

- social agencies that are knowledgeable on youth gangs - police officers to work the streets to prevent gangs - reducing alienation and marginalization of minority youth - community involvement to support children and youth at risk - school uniforms for team spirit - stricter law enforcement with consequences - multicultural events to make all kids feel they belong - improve parent/youth communication and interaction - youth centres for youth to hang-out - social programs against poverty to offer hope for a better life - strengthening parental skills for teens

.../12

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6.

Who would you go for help? Confidante (Person or agency) Friend Police Parents Brother/Sister Social Agency Teacher Youth Groups School Principal in confidante (%) Trust Most Least 70.7 4.9 46.3 14.6 46.3 14.6 29.3 9.6 24.4 14.6 21.2 26.8 19.5 29.3 19.5

Educational Counsellor Doctor

9.6

14.6 24.4

7.3 24.4

COMMENT: A significant number of youths are aware of gang-related violence in the community. As many as one-third claim to know someone who was a victim of gang violence. Examples given included being jumped, robbed, attacked and assaulted by a youth gang or a group of bullies. The majority are youths are optimistic that something can be done to prevent gang violence. Suggestions offered include: raising awareness on negative lifestyles of street gangs, greater parental involvement, selfesteem, more recreational activities, curfews, workshops, school uniforms, life-skills, better relations with police and effective law enforcement. They also feel that programs to remove barriers and multicultural activities to reduce the alienation and marginalization of minority youths will lessen the temptation to join gangs. On who the youth would approach if faced with a problem of youth gangs, friends are again at the top of the list. The strong confidence in friends confirms the power and influence of peer pressure--which can be positive: (seeking mediation) or negative (forming counter gangs to fight back). Police and parents are the second choice. This was a significant improvement for the police who were previously ranked at the bottom of the list. As mentioned earlier, initiatives such as community policing, crime stoppers and community neighbourhood-watch seem to be working.
Therefore, more people feel comfortable to approach the police and report violent incidents and crime.

Youth groups and educators (principals, teachers and education counsellors) continued to rank at the bottom of the list of those approached--even though some gang activity occurred at school.

.../13

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E. YOUTH AND PERSONAL SAFETY

1.

Should all guns in Canada be registered? YES - 95% NO - 5% WHY? - awareness - to know who has fire arms - keep them out of reach of children - keep them from wrong hands

ANALYSIS: The youth are aware of the growing numbers of gun-related incidents involving children. For example, a few days before the forum, there was wide press coverage of an incident in Jonesboro, Arkansas where two students shot and killed four girls, a teacher, and wounded fifteen others on a school-yard. This prompted public outcry for new legislation to tighten gun control. Those who objected are not concerned about monetary costs of registration, but rather are worried about the infringement of personal rights and freedom. The youth also acknowledged that criminals would not register their guns. 2. Are curfews effective to protect children at night? YES - 80% NO - 15% - 5%

UNDECIDED

WHY? - to protect them from strangers and weirdos - easier for single and working parents to discipline their children - to prevent crime, vandalism and other delinquent acts ANALYSIS: A majority of youths feel the need to protect children from strangers. They hear reports of adolescents ending up in trouble for roaming around alone late at night, and incidents where children have been abducted, molested or murdered. Wild parties, fights, vandalism, robberies, break-and-enters and other crimes can occur when youths are left unsupervised at night. It is argued that introducing curfews will make it easier for single mothers and working parents to enforce discipline and control the movement of their children at night. It will also make it easier for families taking Aboriginal boarding students to supervise them, and help them stay safe after hours. Other comments are that it would make it easy for the community, police and neighbours to rebuke youths who are out at night. At present, it is difficult to tell youths who are staying up late to go home. Having a formal regulation that is well publicized would show that the community is against youths staying out unsupervised after the set time. .../14

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3.

If YES, What time? ____ p.m. and What age limit?____ Sixteen (16) years old curfew at 11:00 p.m. Thirteen (13) years old curfew at 10:00 p.m.

ANALYSIS: From the many who favoured curfews, it is interesting to note that older youths are eager to set early times for their younger peers. During discussions, it was suggested that there should be some flexibility on how the curfew is enforced-depending on circumstances. For example: youths who are out late with adults (parents, guardian or older siblings), working, babysitting or coming from movies or school functions should not be penalized. There should be a drop-off site (facility) for kids picked up by police to be held, where parents can be summoned to pick up their children, or can stay until parents or guardians can be located. This will also save lots of time for busy police officers who may have a hard time proving the identity of the kids--who may be intoxicated, give misleading names, or are un-co-operative. Communities should have open dialogue on how to work together to implement and enforce curfews, and what to do with the truants who break them. 4. Do you feel that School Uniforms are a good idea? YES - 40% NO - 50% - 10% WHY? - want to be individuals - fit in and not to be judged by what you wear - decrease theft ANALYSIS: The arguments presented against uniforms centred on the need for students to express their individuality through what they wear. Those supporting uniforms liked the collective school identity and team spirit--instead of competition for best clothes. The need to counter gang dress codes, prevent thefts and deter assaults over designer clothes, expensive jackets or runners are some of the reasons in support of simple and affordable uniforms. At the Youth Centre, new immigrant youths from countries where uniforms are the norm overwhelmingly supported them. They commented that this would make it cheaper for parents and encourage students to focus on schooling rather than what to wear. Other students acknowledged that they already wore uniforms for sports activities and at work (restaurants, shops, cadets, guides/scouts etc). Some of those reluctant to wear uniforms are willing to change their minds if they are comfortable and less formal.

UNDECIDED

5.

Do you feel the Young Offenders Act is effective? NO - 70% YES - 25% - 5%

UNDECIDED

- 15 -

.../15

WHY? - it's easy, fun -- I have been there - too many rights -- abuse by repeat offenders - protects disadvantaged kids ANALYSIS: There is a strong feeling that the Young Offenders Act as it exists now is not very effective at helping youths who get in trouble with the law not to re-offend. Some youths who have been through corrections say that the system is fun and does not provide serious consequences for offences committed. For them, life in the facilities is easy and more comfortable than the realities of home and out on the streets. 6. Do you know what Boot-camps are? YES - 80% NO - 20% PLEASE EXPLAIN: - read or heard about it - good discipline - will enforce good behaviour

ANALYSIS:

Many youths are aware of boot-camps. With a significant number of them familiar with the Young Offenders Act and correctional facilities, they know about the new tough way of disciplining troubled youth.

7.

Do you feel Boot-camps can help to enforce discipline? YES - 60% NO - 30% - 10%

UNDECIDED

ANALYSIS: Support for boot-camps seems to stem from a need for discipline. Some young offenders require more than the casual set-up of open custody and group homes to learn to be responsible. Therefore, the strict military-style training at boot-camps with rigid rules provides a framework they need to change attitudes and behaviour. Many youths agree that they need to know the boundaries and the consequences of breaking the limits during early formative years. Thus, boot-camps offer the lifeskills and a workethic they need for their future success and well-being. 8. Do you know of any Youth Gangs in Thunder Bay?

YES - 80% ANALYSIS:

- 10%

NO - 10%

UNDECIDED

The majority of youths are aware of the existence of youth gangs in the City. Signs of graffiti across the City and along the highway confirm the presence of established big city and small emerging street gangs. Winnipeg-based Indian Posse and Manitoba Warriors and the local Central Posse and East Side Brothers are familiar to local youths.

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.../16

PROPOSED ACTION-PLAN
The following are actions recommended by the RMYC to prevent violence:

1.

VIOLENCE AT SCHOOL: Youths' perception is that violence in schools is on the rise. There are reports of assaults in bathrooms, hallways and playgrounds. Incidents include fights over relationships, name-calling, stolen property, and uncontrollable anger. It is unfortunate that students do not feel comfortable to approach staff to report assaults. As can be seen in this report, school principals and teachers are at the bottom of the list of who students could go to for help. Even though fear of violence--bullying and assaults--affects the students' potential to learn, many would risk poor grades or dropping out than approach teachers for help. Based on feedback from the survey, many students do not approach their teachers in case of assault. As a result, many teachers may not be aware of the problems or the nature of the violence. The main reason for not going to staff is that things will only escalate--resulting in them being beaten up or picked on for telling. Some teachers lack the skills to mediate conflict and do not take the time to discuss the problem with the victim--ask what needs to be done and how to deal with the situation. According to students, some things need to cool down first before rushing and reacting to the problem. Such actions may make it worse after school when teachers are not there.

RECOMMENDED ACTION PLAN: The schools' "zero tolerance" policies should be enforced. Principals and teachers should review their policies and take time to learn what is really going on in regards to violence in their schools. School boards should provide professional development days for staff and students to learn mediation and conflict resolution skills. Each school should create a peer mediation teams to

resolve conflict. At the beginning of each school year in the fall, student councils and volunteers from the student body should be on the team. Staff should be assigned to work with the student mediators, assist with training and monitor implementation. Parents should have a role to support the students. School boards should take advantage of the RMYC's resource materials on conflict resolution. Since 1992, the RMYC has been promoting peer mediation in Northwestern Ontario schools. The Council offers training and a do-it-yourself kit to help youths acquire mediation skills. The strategy is effective because youths can communicate better with their peers and provide support for both the victim and the perpetrator without alienating them from each other. To follow-up on this project, the RMYC is developing a participatory violence prevention education initiative for children and youth. We need partners to sponsor and promote the program in schools and the community.

.../17 - 17 -

2.

VIOLENCE IN THE COMMUNITY: Common occurrence of assaults in the community, the media and the home tends to normalize violence in society. Children who grow up seeing violence around them may accept the situation and end up caught in the cycle. Therefore, the RMYC welcomes financial support and any remedial actions to promote safety. The RMYC is grateful to the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines and the Minister Responsible for Women's Issues for funding this project. We are also grateful to the Thunder Bay Police for being a partner in this campaign to promote violence prevention through multicultural youth, and the Ontario Provincial Police (Northwest Region) for providing Detective Constable Dwayne Hill for a series of our school presentations on street gangs. Initiatives such as Community Policing are making police officers more accessible to the general public. The RMYC attributes Community Policing to the trust and confidence the youth now have to approach the police with their concerns on violence. We should also add that the RMYC sits on the Advisory Committee on Race Relations to the Thunder Bay Police. This has enabled the youth to have a voice and direct input in policing and safety issues. Both police and the youth learn from each other to improve safety.

RECOMMENDED ACTION PLAN: The RMYC is appealing for more financial, human and material resources to wage an effective youth-to-youth violence prevention campaign in Thunder Bay and in the region. Governments and community groups should invest in programs

that educate the public on the impact of family violence, sexual exploitation and assault. Crisis homes and social service agencies that help abused spouses and children should endeavour to be more approachable to potential clients. Our survey confirms that youths are not accessing the services they need, and there is urgent need to rectify this situation. There is also a need for governments to support economic programs, social structures and support services that help to reduce the potential of stress and violent reactions. The Thunder Bay Police Service should seek financial resources to provide adequate support to the Community Policing program. Neighbourhood police officers should have more flexibility to working with community residents including the youth. Community police should be encouraged to initiate proactive activities that can involve the youth in violence prevention. Police officers should be invited to drop in at the Youth Centre in Victoriaville Mall at any time to establish rapport with youths of all backgrounds. The RMYC should work through the Advisory Council to encourage the police to be involved in recreational and social activities with youth, and help with fundraising for the youth centre--to establish partnerships. Police officers should also receive crosscultural training to be more sensitive to minority youth. .../18

- 18 3. DATE RAPE: There is a parallel between family violence and date rape. Youths who grow up in an environment of family violence tend to normalize the situation and will likely be abusive to their partner. The challenge is breaking the cycle of violence and helping both the perpetrators and victims to heal. The RMYC is impressed with the numbers of youths who are aware of what date rape is. All youths participating in the project knew about date rape, a positive indication that education campaigns being waged are effective. Since youth is a group in transition, enlightenment has to continue for the new children. Knowing what is wrong and getting help to heal will break the cycle of abuse. * RECOMMENDED ACTION PLAN: The RMYC recommends that current sexual assault programs targeting the youth should continue. Colourful and eye-catching posters on date-rape should be posted in schools, community centres, bus-shelters and recreation facilities where youths congregate. Police, health officials, and the media should inform the public if they suspect "date rape" drugs in the community. 4. GUN CONTROL: Ready access to guns is blamed for the growing violent fatalities. Other weapons are not as deadly and powerful as fire-arms which make it easy to kill or would many people in a short space of time. Gun registration in Great Britain after the tragic shooting of a teacher and sixteen small children in Dunblane, Scotland, is a practical example of what can be achieved if there is the will and leadership to control fire-arms-know who has what and where. * RECOMMENDED ACTION PLAN: The proposed gun registration by the federal government should be supported and implemented. The RMYC should mobilize other youth groups to write to the Prime Minister and the Attorney General in Ottawa, the Ontario Premier and Attorney General, local Members of Parliament, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and Thunder Bay Police Services in support of gun registration and stiff penalties for violators and those who make firearms accessible to minors. The RMYC should also begin to liaise with other groups supporting gun registration for joint strategies to advocate for stricter gun control. The Council should encourage youths to convince parents and guardians to register their guns and keep them hidden, safe and secure. 5. CURFEWS: Curfews help to protect children and youth. They are a collective way to control youths' movements and reduce risks at night. Imposing a curfew helps parents, guardians, the police and the community as a whole to keep children safe and off the streets late at night. The challenge, however is enforcing the curfew and how to apply the consequences to ensure that they are effective. And once you begin enforcing curfews, the community will open a can of worms we have to deal with, because families today are not what many decision-makers feel they should be. .../19

- 19 -

RECOMMENDED ACTION PLAN: The Thunder Bay Police should use Community Policing officers to lead the campaign to promote the introduction of curfews across the City. The Neighbourhood Watch program, community groups and youth representatives should be involved in discussions to determine the time and age groups for the curfews. The community should be consulted on enforcement, including the consequences and penalties for those breaking the curfew. Youths should be directly involved in helping to decide when to implement and how to enforce the curfew.

6.

UNIFORMS: There seems to be a gradual acceptance of school uniforms among youths. With many students working part-time jobs and participating in team activities where uniforms are worn, they are becoming popular. While their impact on violence prevention can be dubbed cosmetic, there is a feeling that they foster team spirit, build school pride, promote neatness, help to reduce vandalism, and encourage good behaviour. Those in favour of school uniforms say they are great equalizers and make it easy for students to focus on learning--rather than what to wear. Those opposed argue that they suppress individuality. The debate also has an economic side. Current dress trends of expensive designer clothes create hardship for a growing number of poor and single parents who cannot afford the latest fashions for their children to "fit in" with their peers at school. Concern over security is another issue. In addition to making it easy for schools to enforce dress codes for decency, uniforms can help to identify strangers from students, counter gang activity, as well as control hidden weapons being brought into classrooms. Many private and inner city schools are turning to uniforms to improve image and discipline.

RECOMMENDED ACTION PLAN: The RMYC recommends that school boards and principals set up pilot projects in selected schools where parent councils/parents and are receptive to the idea. Student Councils (the student body) should be involved in choosing the design (formal or casual), logo, proactive (anti-violence) slogans, etc--to assume ownership of what they will wear. Teachers and other experts should help with selection of the material, quality, colours, etc. to ensure affordability and that the uniform complements the learning environment. This should be monitored for impact on behaviour.

7.

YOUNG OFFENDERS: Many young people who have been through the Young Offenders program feel that the experience does little to deter and prevent them to be repeat offenders. They say that too much protection and emphasis on young offenders' rights does not help minors to learn self-discipline, accountability and develop a sense of responsibility. Others claim that the comfort and luxury in young offender facilities does not resemble the harsh reality of where they come from and the society they will return to after their time. .../20

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There is a feeling that better parenting and support services for youth at risk at home, or after they get into trouble with the law would be an effective way to help troubled kids. Incarceration, at times has the opposite effect when young first-time offenders mix with hardened criminals who exert negative peer pressure and influence. Support for boot-camps seems to stem from the need for strict discipline--to change direction with little or no tolerance for mischief-- and a desire to teach self-discipline, work ethic, responsibility, accountability and so forth. This is seen as positive--something that is regarded as missing in the current system of group homes and young offenders' `luxurious' facilities. * RECOMMENDATIONS: The RMYC welcomes the current review of the Young Offenders Act--to make youths involved in serious violent crimes more accountable for their actions. Therefore, letters should be sent to both the federal and provincial governments supporting proposed changes to the Act. While parents are ultimately responsible for disciplining their children, peers, educators, law enforcers and the community as a whole has a role to play in modifying behaviour. Thus, there is need for on-going dialogue on ways we can all collaborate to raise, discipline and support children and youth. RMYC is advocating for a pilot Teen Court program in Northwestern Ontario. In the United States of America where they were first introduced, Teen Courts have been very effective in reducing juvenile crime and the numbers of repeat offenders involved in minor crime. After inviting experts to explain Teen Courts to the RMYC, we were able to get support for the program from the youth, schools, municipalities and First Nations. What we need is government support and financial resources to enable us to implement pilot Teen Courts. 8. YOUTH GANGS: Youth street gangs are certainly on the increase in Thunder Bay. There is an active campaign to recruit members. Graffiti across the City confirms presence of specific gangs in the territory. At the Youth Centre, we are aware of youths who have been assaulted at school, bus stops, malls, in alleys, and at parties by gangs. Others have lost their bus-passes, designer jackets, bicycles, walkmans, and money to youth gangs. The problem is escalating to street gangs involved in crime. There is a definite need to address the situation before it gets out of hand as what has happened in Manitoba. The RMYC welcomes the current initiative by both the federal and provincial governments to wage a campaign against organized gang activity in Ontario and across Canada. We realize that international motorcycle biker gangs such as the Hells Angels and Satan's Choice are always recruiting and competing for territory. These gangs are involved in crime and innocent people get killed or hurt when there is inter-gang conflict or someone gets in their way. It is therefore important to be proactive and limit their potential to recruit and get young members.

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The RMYC welcomes government initiatives such as Youth Service Canada (YSC) which enables community groups and not-for-profit organizations to hire youths-including school dropouts--for skills development and career training. Participants in the program are currently involved in a youth-to-youth out-reach to share information with their peers, and solicit input on violence prevention in the community. As a follow-up to the forum, the team has embarked on a street-gang awareness project with the RCMP, OPP and the Thunder Bay Police. So far, officers assigned to youth gangs have visited Thunder Bay high schools to share their personal experiences on street gangs. The RMYC has also developed a special program to counter gang activity in lowincome housing areas. In collaboration with Thunder Bay Housing and the Thunder Bay Community Policing program, the Council is working with youths in the Windsor Street housing units to create positive role models to organize recreational activities, socials and workshops on healthy lifestyles, volunteering, lifeskills, workskills, respect, accountability, responsibility and so forth. Plans are to expand this initiative to the John and Limbrick Streets housing units. The RMYC realizes that complex situations and negative social environments often give rise to youth gangs and individuals, families, peers, communities, institutions, social agencies, law enforces and governments can all play an important role to avert the problem. The impact of each varies, but family and peers are the most influential in shaping adolescents' attitude and values during the formative years. * RECOMMENDED ACTION PLAN: There is a need to organize forums to discuss gang activities. Workshops on personal growth and lifeskills should be hosted regularly to help youths become accountable for their actions and minimise peer pressure to join gangs. Schools should incorporate parenting skills as part of the curriculum and provide a safe learning environment to teach students careers for a better future. Social agencies and law enforcers have to provide guidance to help youth at risk develop positive social skills. Governments must provide the resources and legal framework for families to build safe and healthy communities for the well-being of the next generation. The federal, provincial and municipal governments should support communitybased anti-street gang campaigns. Youths should be targeted to discourage the forming of street gangs which can be a breeding ground for well-organized international bike gangs. Municipalities, school boards, and the police should encourage the creation of neighbourhood teams to watch out for graffiti, and paint it over once spotted--to eliminate the staking and marking of territory. Financial resources should be provided to help youth-run drop-in centres (such as our Multicultural Youth Centre) for proactive youth-directed initiatives to promote positive lifestyles. The RMYC also needs funding to support this initiative, and enable us to expand it to our peers across Northwestern Ontario.

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CONCLUDING COMMENTS
The RMYC is pleased that the violence prevention initiative went well. Over two hundred youths were directly involved in the project through the forum and group sessions at the Youth Centre. We believe that many more will benefit from sharing information with their peers and reading the articles published in newspapers. Response for the forum exceeded all expectations and we had to turn away some wouldbe delegates. Through evaluation forms, the participants indicated that they enjoyed the group discussions and would attend a similar event organized for youth by youth. Event highlights included the workshop presentations, the youth-to-youth discussions, video sessions, and the speech by Thunder Bay Police Chief. The only negative comments were limited sitting space, and no time to fully cover all topics and allow participants to attend the different workshops. One main recommendation is that more funding should be sought to reserve bigger facilities, and hold longer sessions for more youths to be involved in the issues related to the violence prevention campaign. On what the participants learned, the youth appreciated all the information provided and finding ways to break the cycle of violence. They also appreciated knowing about the services available to help victims and the perpetrators, as well as how to access help. Preventing violence is an on-going challenge for everyone, and opportunities should be provided to enable children and youth to be actively involved in the promotion of personal safety and non-violent ways to resolve conflict. We are pleased that the youth came up with ideas of how violence can be addressed. While some are pessimistic about finding solutions, a majority seem optimistic that something can be done to break the cycle of violence. Education, support services and proactive programs can help. Issues such as poverty and racism should also be tackled because they contribute to crime and violence that threatens our safety. Prevention and Intervention at early ages improves the chances of children developing healthy attitudes. There is a need to build positive values and healthy relationships. Healing will help victims of abuse and sexual assault to alleviate the pain and prevent suicide--another growing concern among the youth. Informed discussion and providing alternatives to deal with conflict allows for mediation to solve problems. Teaching children to talk things out (peer mediation) is a better way to avoid bitterness, violent confrontation and a need for revenge. Children should be spared from the harm of family violence and the emotional scars. Help should be provided to stop the cycle. The RMYC is grateful to the resource people, guests, and the youths who made the project a success. We thank the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, the Thunder Bay Police, and MANWO for their financial contribution towards this initiative. The Ontario Provincial Police also supported the project. Youth are a dependent population with no financial resources of their own. Therefore, we need community support and external funding to complement our volunteer efforts and a commitment to violence prevention. We are appealing for donations to support our Youth Group and its follow-up activities to create safe healthy communities for successive generations. .../23

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RMYC VIOLENCE PREVENTION PROJECT RESOURCE TEAM

PROJECT AND FORUM CO-ORDINATORS: Marcia Wint Sam Kakegamic RMYC Violence Prevention Youth Project Co-ordinator RMYC Violence Prevention Forum Co-ordinator

FORUM TEAM LEADERS: Mark Kakegamic RMYC/YSC Violence Prevention Team Leader Tracy Taylor RMYC/YSC Violence Prevention Team Leader WORKSHOP AND GROUP SESSION FACILITATORS: Melanie Jourdain Mel LeGarde Raven Linklater Roxanne Mayer Lauretta Moses Wendy Partnoy Kathy Ranjan Shannon Tait RMYC Facilitator: Family Violence Session RMYC Facilitator: Gang Violence Session RMYC Facilitator: Date Rape Session RMYC Facilitator: Youth Violence Session RMYC Facilitator: Family Violence Session RMYC/YSC Facilitator: Peer Mediation/Conflict Resolution RMYC Facilitator: Youth Violence Session RMYC Facilitator: Gang Violence Session

PROJECT AND FORUM SUPPORT TEAM: Amy Lahkani RMYC President Cheryl Kentner RMYC Team Convenor Michael Belmore YSC Team Convenor Bill Ward YSC Team Convenor Wendy Partnoy YSC Team Convenor Dienye Miandonye -YSC Participant Mary Jean Cormier - YSC Project Co-ordinator Bobby Narcisse - YSC Project Co-ordinator George Ishabid RMYC Aboriginal Programs Co-ordinator Moffatt Makuto MANWO Regional Multicultural Consultant GUEST SPEAKER: Thunder Bay Police Chief Leo Toneguzzi -- Keynote Speaker: Community Policing PROFESSIONAL RESOURCE PEOPLE: Constable Dave Warren -- Presenter: Gang Violence Justice of the Peace Tom Logan -- Presenter: Youth Violence and Young Offenders Social Worker/Counsellor Priscilla Jourdain -- Presenter: Family Violence Faye Peterson Crisis Home Worker Susan Ward -- Presenter: Sexual Assault Health Nurse Peggy Pauliuk -- Presenter: Date Rape .../24

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FINANCIAL STATEMENT:
REVENUE: MINISTRY OF NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT & MINES THUNDER BAY POLICE ASSOCIATION MULTICULTURAL ASSOCIATION OF NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO Total: $ 3,600.00 500.00 1,000.00 ________ $ 5,100.00

EXPENSES: FACILITIES: Workshop Facilities & Meeting Rooms CO-ORDINATION AND FACILITATORS: Co-ordination & Honoraria EQUIPMENT RENTAL, MATERIALS & SUPPLIES: Computer Time, Resource Kits and Materials, etc. OFFICE EXPENSES: Space, Telephone, Fax, Postage & Photocopying TRANSPORTATION: Local Travel REPORT PRINTING AND DISTRIBUTION *100 Copies @ $3.00 $ 3,800.00

$ 600.00

$ 250.00

$ 200.00

$ 250.00

$ 300.00 ________ Total: $ 5,400.00 ($ 300.00*)

(Deficit) / Surplus

* Due to Extra demand for Report after Press Release