Four decades later, the decline in violent crime has created the space for a new reform discourse — a Black Lives Matter movement that is fighting for much needed change. But, as we rightly rethink punishment, it would be a mistake to ignore crime, both its origins and its effects. Yes, we need robust government action, including economic development, job training programs and renewal of aging housing stock, to reverse a half-century of social and economic decline. But, as the Harvard sociologist Robert J. Sampson notes, “Physical infrastructure and housing are crucial, but so, too, is the social infrastructure.” We need to bolster religious and civic organizations that cultivate stronger social ties, mitigate disorder and fight crime.

This right here is the answer. Communities and every individual's ties to their communities have been getting snipped and clipped at every turn.

Humans are stronger together- and being on Facebook obviously isn't enough.

Cultivating stronger social ties will in itself clean up a lot of the seedier elements in urban areas. Its in these areas that children and teens learn that a gang will have their back but the neighborhood church won't or can't.

Great history. Thanks for the share @ppp