Obviously the youth support complex is the big point of this chapter and somewhat the whole book. However, as Rios pointed out, there needs to be substantial changes to the system in order to implement successful youth programs. For example, teachers and police officers need to learn how to be role models instead of disciplinarians to these kids. #so345

It is really sad to see how the kids trying to do the right thing are still associated with the delinquent kids. They should be acknowledged for their actions not who people think they hang out with. But I think we are all guilty of this. I know I am. I think about high school, when there were delinquent groups in which there was 1 or 2 kids that did better in school but they were still thought of as the better ones of _____ label. As wrong as it is, I'm still guilty of thinking that way. #so345

I know Rios focuses a lot on masculinity to explain the boys actions, but it could be that tough lives create tough people, or at least they're supposed to. These boys have had such a rough life, and it has never let up, so if they stop acting tough it would be really hard to get back up. They have to act overly tough in order convince themselves that they can get through it. To be able to psychologically bear their reality they have to exert their toughness. #so345

I keep thinking that these kids have it rough and somehow it always gets worse. This book does an excellent (but terrible) job of showing the cycle that these kids get stuck in. Labeling theory mixed with the criminalization of their actions combine to make an inescapable reality for these poor kids. #so345

It's hard to say someone has no chance in life because I like to think people have and will overcome any situation they're put in. However, I would definitely say these kids are at a severe disadvantage. When they're not being criminalized on the street they're being criminalized in school. They're legally required to be at school so they're either breaking the law by not being there or getting in trouble at school. #so345

The quote "taming the ghetto" that was used by members of the government is very interesting. It's hard to tell intentionality or whether class or race was specifically referenced here, but either way one must know both are very intertwined. Hearing things like this are always upsetting because it makes you realize that a lot of the people making laws are still racist and classist. But this is what happens when we keep putting people born in the 1940's in office. #so345

The focus of policing has shifted over the years. For example, there used to be an emphasis on the enforcement of the law, not prevention of crime. If someone committed a crime, they would be sought out and punished. Now, police feel it's their job to help prevent crime by being more involved in preventing crimes that MIGHT be happening. Police get involved in "suspicious activity" and the such to prevent crime when it really just victimizes black and Latino kids like in the book. #so345

I think the main theme of this film is intersectionality. Of course race is the main focus of the film, but it's easy to see the compound disadvantages throughout. Poverty is consistently seen throughout the film and is a large factor in the compounded disadvantage black people faced. #So345

While the police could obviously be doing a better job at serving communities, I think it is important to note that there is a large disconnect between our theorizing and actual application. Aggressive policing is a large problem, but sometimes being in those situations is much different than looking from afar, and SOMETIMES aggressive tactics are to ensure the safety of everyone around. I am not sticking up for the police or aggressive policing, however it important to consider. #so345

There is a reason that police cars are bright neon in Europe and other places around the world. It's because they are supposed to be recognizable so they can assist the people. Most police squads here have a minimum of 1 unmarked car. Unmarked police are nothing short of a legal racketeering scheme for the state. I worked as a mechanic in a town of 1500 people, and worked on the local undercover car. Absolutely no reason to have those unless the goal is to generate crime and fines. #so345