Comments on: Black Teenage Pregnancy Stereotypes…Or Are They?

By: Lauren D. Pitts

Lauren D. Pitts — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 21:45:08 +0000

Sir I could not agree with you more! This is an issue that is repeatedly presenting itself in my research findings for my dissertation work. It is so disheartening and tragic on so many different levels. As a people we are in a constant state of familial crisis. What was once blatantly wrong now in many ways is socially acceptable. There’s no shame, embarrassment or humiliation anymore. Now getting pregnant for the girl and the for the father (boy) to be is a badge of honor. Our families are deteriorating faster than we can keep up. I am a firm believer in the whole village to raise a child principle. The age of the parents, grandparents and great-grandparents is getting younger every day. With the absence of mature responsible adults giving birth so went the ability and seemingly the desire to teach morals, values and ethics.

By: Deborah Grison

Deborah Grison — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:41:58 +0000

Recenty, the City of New York launched a new campaign to to reduce teen pregnancy in the city that has stirred significant controversy. The ads are placed stategically in subways and in specific communities on specific subway lines.

The messages on the posters are not subtle, and they’re not meant to be: a crying toddler with the caption, “I’m twice as likely not to graduate high school because you had me as a teen,” reads one, while another shows a little girl saying, “Honestly Mom… chances are he won’t stay with you. What happens to me?”

In the City’s usual abrupt, offensive way, the messages are abhorant and need to be removed and someone needs to be flogged and fired. Take a look.

By: Stephen McDow

Stephen McDow — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 13:04:13 +0000

I couldn’t agree more with this article. It really is time that the African American and Latino communities take more responsibility for “shaming” teen pregnancy and not allowing excuses to persist. WE also need to stop talking about raising men and start raising men. That starts and exists on a generational level…and it’s personal! Legislation, schools, parents and the community can’t do it by themselves as separate parts. Each are parts to a greater whole and they must all work together.