Our mission statement at MyCity Logan is simple and succinct.
Our newspaper aims to provide a quality news service to the 300,000-plus people of the City of Logan, celebrating the diversity of more than 200 cultures represented within our community.
We provide a platform which gives all people a voice, holds authorities to account, and enables people to live with pride within their home and work.
While we refuse to shy away from the hard issues, we realise the importance of celebration and acknowledging the immense amount of good that happens within our neighbourhoods.
Today’s paper is no exception. Turn to page 5 to read about the people of Village Connect who are taking a cultural look at how youth are misled, and ways they might be able to put a dent in youth crime.
As anyone who has been a victim of youth crime will attest, it’s one of the darkest parts of our society.
Many will argue that the justice system is too light-handed, particularly when some of the crimes are particularly heinous, showing no regard for people’s belongings or personal welfare.
Offenders are either given a slap on the wrist, or they’re shown a glimpse of the punishment system.
Yet, Maori and Pasifika elders are taking responsibility. They’re finding solutions.
They’re taking troubled young and sharing lessons of their own culture, finding ways to develop a newfound respect among their younger generation.
Culturally-sensitive help is not a “get out of jail free” card. To the contrary, it’s an effort to draw on beliefs that will drive meaning into the lives of young people.
It might not work for all. But for those it does help, it’s a positive way forward that all members of of our communities can be particularly proud of.
