Module 2: FRIENDS

(Page 24) Resource sheet 3 (cont)

Hope not dope

BTA is a 'gang' now numbering 5000 in the U.S.A. It was started by a small group of black teenagers in Atlanta. In their own words they report on one of their recent activities.

"Recently the Black Teens for Advancement (BTA) travelled to Norfolk, Virginia in an effort to curb the level of violence within that community. They began their battle by journeying into the community to discuss the problems that promote violence and to identify possible solutions. It was personally one of the most emotional experiences of my life."

Rodney Gray

"The looks on the kids' faces when I spoke to them reminded me that I was just like them. They wanted me to help them out of the same hell that I had escaped from - the drugs, the shootings, the prostitution.

"We cannot allow the devil to eliminate us with a systematic plan of crack, guns and induced genocide. I found the only thing that could save us from ourselves when I looked into the eyes of a little girl. It was HOPE!!!"

Dwayne Truitt

"Since they have the same problems as we have, it was very easy to relate to them and to interact on their level. The problems of drugs and neighbourhood rivalries are not new to BTA. We just sat back and let the teens of Norfolk talk about their own problems. Thus, they could come to their own solutions."

William Price

"It felt good to know that you were helping someone who was in serious danger."

Carlos Wideman

"I know we made them realize that there is a better way of making money and to help our families out in their time of need than selling drugs, if those brothers put hope in their brains and not dope in their veins."

Floyd Wood