The recent death of 19 year old Chanel Jordan has put many in the community on high alert about the realities of violence and its unfortunate impact on our youth.  Too often these events are forgotten and families left to mourn the death of their loved ones.  Speaking from personal experience, I know firsthand about losing someone to violence.

My oldest brother Cortez Blassingame was murdered in 2002 and his case have yet to be solved. Due in part to witnesses not coming forward and those who have information about his murder afraid to talk to police.

The escalation of violence in the community, particularly in the black community is something that affects each one of us. Even the most conservative of Cincinnati must admit the realities of violence. Many suburban residents are afraid to travel through downtown because of the perception of getting shot or killed. Tuning into local talk radio, I listened to every suggestion from “we need more police,” to “teenagers need to remain in school, get a good job, and work hard.” The one that remained on my mind is the notion that events like this somehow demands leaders! I contend that the lack of a leader or leaders is not the reason Chanel Jordan or my brother was murdered. The lack of leaders or leadership is not the reason why Cincinnati experienced 79 homicides in 2005 and the lack of leadership is certainly not the reason why so many black youth feel the need to carry guns!

Perhaps leaders can help in the areas expressed above, but what is most needed within our society is role models. Individuals worthy of imitation or a following. The role model should began in the home with mom, dad, or both. To often in the black community the role model is found in the streets because mom, dad, or in many cases both, are caught up in some other conflict. I recall in my younger years (I am only 19) the emphasis on role models expressed by my teachers and pastor. Some of these individuals are Michael Jordan, Bill Cosby, Oprah Winfrey, Irvin “Magic” Johnson, Whoopi Goldberg, Queen Latifah, Tiger Woods, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, General Colin Powell, and so many others. Photos of these role models were viewable in all of the classrooms and hallways at my school. I recall day dreaming in class about someday being like one of these individuals not because I did not have personality but because these individuals had achieved that which I desired. They exemplified accomplishment and what it takes to reach it.

Unfortunately we live in times where some young people idolize rappers who live a fantasy life.  Some of the rappers lyrics are unreal but for some young people it is. On the other hand the rap life to many young people demonstrates “the other side”; a place where there is no poverty, a place where one is financially sound, and a place where one can be popular. We must begin reflecting on these tragic events and find solutions to the problem. And then act upon them. We all know Cincinnati is infamous for planning, planning, and did I say planning! We need to begin formulating ideas and strategies to curb violence.

I normally site my neighborhood, Avondale as in many cases an unfortunate existence. Avondale has nearly seventy churches. Of these 15 have gyms. Only two are accessible to the public. My information is based on a assessment by Avondales CPOP Team. These resources and venues are needed in curbing violence and giving young people a safe environment.

I would only hope that we will not allow Chanel Jordan’s death to be forgotten in what has become known as “another homicide.” When will we stop allowing these events to occur and just sweep them under the rug, blame police, the school system, and everyone else? We must stand and say enough is enough! Let not the dead be forgotten, let their deaths remind us of what we can do in response to tragedy. Act now and do your part!  In the next few weeks I will continue my series entitled “Reflection on Leadership.” I will share with readers some recent events and how it pertains to leadership in Cincinnati.  Stay tuned.

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