In his article, ”Where have all the fathers gone?” (Op-Ed, Jan. 28), Dr. Louis Sullivan, Secretary of Health and Human Services, touched upon an issue that will have disturbing effects for future generations. He stated that the loss of the father figure has led many youths to depend on gangs for the support and guidance once provided by fathers. This can be confirmed by the fact that 70 percent of juveniles in long-term correction facilities did not have the benefit of a father figure.
To reverse this disturbing trend we must take immediate steps to benefit our children. These might include programs in their local schools that involve interaction with respected male figures. The Milwaukee Public Schools set up a similar program with great success.
We must reach these children before the unsavory characters on the streets become their role models.
The trend can be reversed if society sends the message to our children that we care about them and their future.
