The Editor,
I propose that the City of Richmond introduce a curfew for teens in order to combat teenage vandalism, drug use, and preventable car accidents.
In San Jose, Calif., a person under the age of 16 cannot be in a public place within the city without adult supervision between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.
I believe that this is quite reasonable because the curfew:
a) prevents minors from wandering dangerous streets;
b) lessens the chance of youth being hit by drunk drivers; and
c) allows parents to not have to worry about their children getting in trouble at night.
Implementing a curfew will hopefully not only lead to safer neighbourhoods, but also establish effective communications between the authorities, parents, schools, and youth. This way, youth may have a better chance of accessing any help or counselling that they might need.
As a teenager myself, I understand that we all want to live our teenage lives to the fullest. I understand that young people yearn to party late into the night, to enjoy themselves and to have a good time. Though not all youth who are out late are involved illegal activities, there are people out late who should not be around youth.
I do not want to see innocent children becoming the accidental victims of violence, drug and alcohol abuse.
My hope is not only for everyone to enjoy their adolescent years, but to also enjoy their many years to come.
Katie Huang
Richmond
