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Guest Opinion by Nikima Anderson

I’m writing to express my views on my district’s representative Jason Dawkins. The following includes points that I address in a letter I intend to send to him.

I’m glad to hear about his second upcoming term. I am a Masterman High School senior and I live in the Frankford area and am represented by him. I am writing him with my opinions on some of his work and issue stances.

One of his issues that I am the most passionate about is how he intends to keep the streets safe. My family has lived right around the corner corner from Frankford Transportation Center for the last 10 years. As he resides relativity close to there as well, I’m sure he understands it’s not the safest area.

I really agree with his ideas of directing funding to school aides and counselors because I believe making sure kids have a safe space in school will actually keep them in school and out of the dangerous situations this neighborhood might induce.

I am also intrigued by the bill he was recently pushing concerning parole and life sentences. This is one ideal that I can not say I am in agreement with. If someone commits a crime worthy of a life sentence, I don’t think that he should get the option of parole. “Good behavior” is too subjective to determine if someone has been rehabilitated. Also, even if their age or health make it extremely unlikely that they will ever reoffend, it is still possible that they will. And, even if they don’t, they should still have to live out the entirety of the punishment that they have earned.

This is particularly hard for me to say because I have family currently serving life sentences but I do really believe that if parole is not deserved, it shouldn’t just be granted.

On another note, I really appreciate his take on the police brutality issue. I was so happy with his opposition to the bill that would give police officers who used their guns unnecessary anonymity.

As a young black woman, police brutality is an issue that I hold very close to my heart and am very passionate about. So I am glad to be represented by someone who understands the importance of holding overly aggressive officers accountable for their actions.

Aside from mainstream issues, I would like to let it be known that I love the things he does for our community, in terms of recreation activities and parks and education for example, and how involved he is, talking at community centers and things of that sort.

Although I’ll be leaving the area soon for college, I’m still very concerned for the area that my little brother will continue to reside in and I hope that he is able to follow through on his plans to make our community safe and functional.

High School Senior,
Nikima Anderson

Guest opinons are always welcome.  Write to gil@frankfordgazette.com

2 thoughts on “Guest Opinion by Nikima Anderson

  1. I was born and raised in Frankford and have seen many changes both good and bad. Few good paying jobs in the area and a ridiculous,disproportionate amount of section eight housing have caused many of the unsafe conditions here. Merchants and residents around Frankford ave are not keeping their properties clean and this is just not acceptable, broken glass, abandoned cars, mattresses and trash everywhere. If we all followed the “Golden Rule” which was spoken by Jesus, and you can find it in Matthew 7:12. Here is what it says: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” Frankford would be a better place. We have to start somewhere and that is a good start. Honestly, I don’t know anyone who says “if I could live anywhere I wanted to, it would be Frankford” but it should be, this area is a GOLDMINE! I had many chances to move, all expenses paid, and I didn’t, this neighborhood has great potential. None of us is perfect, we are human, we make mistakes, let’s learn from them. Frankford needs a second chance to turn itself around and “with God, all things are possible”.

  2. This piece is exactly what’s needed in today’s Government, our constitents holding us accountable for our legislation and community involvement. She has a bright future ahead of her and I look forward to personally meeting with her to help create meaningful policy and changes needed to reflect the voices of those, I serve. #RepDawkins #Thanks

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