Theodore Haywood testifies on NEON program cuts and BOGAP gun diversion

And sometimes you have to be, you know, we have to think out of the box.

I always think back to my HBCU for undergrad, Wilberforce University.

The year before I went there, they sent buses to inner cities and just told people to get on the bus if you want to go to college.

And there were people who never thought about going to college that ended up getting a bachelor's degree from an HBCU as a result.

So sometimes we do have to think out the box.

So if there are ideas that you have specific,

to how we can do a better job, you should let us know.

We welcome that.

I welcome that as a council member, but as definitely as chair in terms of this space for criminal justice as well, because the goal is to keep as many of our young people out of the system as possible and let them know what all exists in the world for them.

And so, I mean, I just ask.

Sorry for interrupting, but like you said, giving us a purpose, you know.

Many youth need a purpose.

That's what drives me.

For me, for example, me coming up here, I feel like my purpose is to advocate for my people and the youth around me because not many are doing it.

So just giving us the opportunity to come up here and speak is very empowering and could change the future for us.

Absolutely.

And again, I thank you for that.

And I'm going to ask the committee staff to make sure we have your contact information so we can connect you to some of the opportunities that we do know of.

And we hope that you stay connected with us.

Thank you.

You can multiply that.

Your experience, you go back, and then not only your school, but around your community, let them know the good news that you have a chair here that's willing to work with you.

I'm willing to work with you.

I raised four in New York City, and I know it's not easy.

You make us very proud today.

So you're going to go out and multiply that and bring more to the hearing to understand the process and research.

Help them out.

Okay?

Thank you for your leadership.

Thank you.

Yes, I echo that.

My heart is full just hearing you, so thank you for that.

Sir?

Hold on, we're going to turn your mic on.

There you go.

Now we can hear you.

My name is Theodore Haywood.