A letter to the editor from Anibal Ramos Jr. published on nj.com on Jan. 13, 2015

Read the letter as it originally appeared on nj.com 

Following a tumultuous few days recently, Mayor Ras Baraka proclaimed Newark in a “state of emergency.” While Newark is no stranger to such events, our emotions are heightened during these times, and our thoughts go directly to our children and families. It reminds us that protecting, nurturing, and positively influencing our youngest citizens must remain our first priority.

It starts by fostering secure spaces and environments, such as parks, schools and recreation centers, where our children and teens feel welcome. And it continues by offering engaging and fun programs like Just One Soccer League, whose achievements are overwhelming despite not having a home field.

I worked to secure funding for a new multi-use athletic field at the Waterfront recreation facility in the North Ward. With additional support from the city’s housing authority and private partners like Coca-Cola Co., we were able to recently break ground.

Enhancing our neighborhoods with the facilities and programs our children need to flourish is no small task. Together we can take on that charge. As the mayor said at the ground breaking, partnerships dedicated to such efforts are precisely what we need to continue to “move Newark forward.” Now there’s a statement I fully support.

Anibal Ramos Jr.

The author is a North Ward councilman in Newark.