On a daily basis, our kids and therefore our schools face an onslaught of challenges stemming from the ravishing effects of poverty and the culture of violence in the neighborhoods around them.

It is not acceptable for us to sit by when we hear reports about a young student who was killed by a stray bullet, or attacked while walking home. We need the faith community, businesses and all levels of government to be a part of the solution.

At a time when economic revival is a top priority, an important hindrance is the increasing level of violence. There can be no incentive large enough for the American family or the entrepreneur, than the lure of a safe and productive community.

We have the ability to change Detroit by simply changing the way we speak about it. You never know who you're speaking to.

When the conditions of Detroit are discussed the voices of Detroit youth are hardly ever considered a part of the conversation.