Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake has sent a message to African-American men to step up and take responsibility for guiding black youths away from violence ("City leaders call on black men to mentor youths and stop the violence," March 25).
For her to take such a bold step on this matter is courageous. The homicides are simply unacceptable.
My concern, however, is that she seemingly is making this an issue only for black men. I think it's an issue for everyone who is truly concerned about the future of Baltimore, regardless of race.
As a 60-year-old white male, am I precluded from attending these meetings or being a mentor for a young black boy? I shouldn't have to feel that way.
Let's all stand together, shoulder to shoulder, with the black men of our city and pray that through discourse will come change for our city's future. All Baltimoreans, regardless of color, deserve that.
Patrick R. Lynch, Nottingham