SAFETY

We believe in community safety. Community safety is when members of a community come together and rely on one another to protect each other from harm or violence, instead of involving the police. Members of the community should de-escalate conflicts when they arise and put an end to them quickly. This means trusting youth to self-manage, engaging nearby residents, and when possible and appropriate (as in a park or community center), having someone who is trained in conflict resolution and can help mediate fights or other disruptions. In addition, it is useful to have a sympathetic adult or establishment nearby in case of an emergency; lighting throughout so people can go to the park late but also, so people feel safer; and at least two entrances/exits.