Two Programs On Gangs to be Presented at University of Richmond

January 18, 2006

The Richmond gang scene and how rhythm and religion can relate to gangs are the topics of two programs Feb. 8 at the University of Richmond.

A local FBI agent will discuss “What’s Happening with Richmond Gangs?” at 1 p.m. in the Center for Civic Engagement, Tyler Haynes Commons. At 7 p.m., Jaleel Abdul-Adil, assistant professor of clinical psychology at the University of Illinois at Chicago, will discuss “Gangs, Gangsta Rap and Glory to God: Roles for Rhythms and Religions in Relating to Street Organizations.” His talk will take place in the Alice Haynes Room of Tyler Haynes Commons.

Both talks are open to the public at no charge.

Abdul-Adil’s career interest is culturally-sensitive, evidence-based and ecologically-appropriate mental health interventions for urban African-American youth. His research focuses on culture-based interventions in university clinics and community settings. He is co-director of the Young Warriors program, which uses rap songs and videos to spur dialogue on gang violence, academic performance, social justice, gender development, cultural identity and other aspects of urban youth life. He also is the former rap music editor for the Chicago Sun Times.

The programs are sponsored by the university’s Office of the Chaplaincy’s inter-religious series, “What Does Religion Have to do with Violence?” as well as the Center for Civic Engagement and the Weinstein Fellows. For more information, contact Jennifer Landis-Santos at (804) 289-8997 or jlandiss@richmond.edu.