Building African American Minds (BAAM) speaks on HB 814

MARYLAND – Last year House Bill 814 was passed in Maryland, legislation that would automatically charge children as adults when committing certain crimes. Some organizations feel this would disproportionately affect youth of color.

Community members are passionate about how children are dealt with after committing crimes. A panel discussion was held Tuesday evening to discuss how the Youth Equity & Safety Act can help children in the area. Organizers say the discussion is intended to spark conversation about external issues that lead juveniles down dark paths.

Dr. James Bell of Building African American Minds says they work to prevent youth from being in situations where they could potentially be convicted in the first place, and break cycles. He tells us that many factors can contribute to why a child may end up in these types of predicaments, and it’s up to the responsible adults to respond before it’s too late. “In the beginning, you know, students, they come to school, they want to do the best they can. But then circumstances could be circumstances outside of school, could be challenges in school. You see that student change over time, and I think we have to be responsive to those changes when they’re going down a negative path.”

Dr. Bell also said BAAM hasn’t explored the bill extensively enough to take an official position, but they do consider both sides, which includes the side of the victims. Organizers have also said that this conversation is open to the States Attorney and Law enforcement to get everyone involved. It is being hosted by the Maryland Office of Public Defenders, and we will have more details as this story develops.