AND HOW ARE THE CHILDREN?

The traditional greeting of the African Masai tribe expresses concern for the health and well-being of its youngest members. It underscores the vital role that children play in Masai society, and the value placed on their safety.

2007 Future Leaders' Mayoral Forum

Candidates for Mayor who attended the Forum (l-r): Chaka Fattah, Michael Nutter, Al Taubenberger

The 2007 Future Leader's Mayoral Forum was a pro-active effort by Philadelphia's teens and young adults to ensure that their voices are heard in the upcoming mayoral election. Unique in this campaign season, the Forum was designed, staffed and moderated by youth, ages 14-21.

The Philadelphia Children's Commission joined with the forum co-sponsors - the Philadelphia Youth Network (PYN) and the Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition (GPUAC) - and several other partner organizations to support this important event.

Visit the website and view the forum.

And how are Philadelphia's children? Are our city's streets safe for them to play and walk on? Are our schools enabling them to learn and thrive? Are we doing all we can to ensure that they are born healthy, and continue to develop through to adulthood? Are parents and caregivers receiving the supports needed to raise their children well? Are we, like the Masai, placing such a high value on their safety, security and well-being that we see them as inextricably linked with health and vitality of our city?

HOPEFULLY, THE NEXT MAYOR SHOULD BE ABLE TO ANSWER, "PHILADELPHIA'S CHILDREN ARE JUST FINE, THANK YOU".