In any place where large groups of people meet or stay together in close proximity to each other, there is going to be a certain amount of crime. We have to face the statistics – the realities- of that statement. All throughout history it has been the same way.

But what happens when it’s happening to students who are a part of our campus, our Skyline College community? Do we just stand idly by and just accept it as a reality we can’t change? Or do we step up and fight it? Do we only ensure safety for students until they leave the campus? Maybe we should step up our game, and help students stay out of a life of crime.

Too many Skyline students over the years have been involved in crime. Some have been suspended, expelled, and even arrested because of decisions they’ve made or the crowds they may have followed, or for any other reason.

Unfortunately, some Skyline students have lost their lives in the midst of the violence. We’ll miss students like Shivnesh Reddy, who was killed only a few weeks ago, and Justin Mendoza, who was murdered in 2005. We should honor their lives by doing our part to make sure it doesn’t happen to anyone else.

Should we judge those who have chosen a different path, condemn them for their actions and just turn our heads? No. Let’s look to organizations, clubs, and programs to maybe have a positive impact on their lives. It may be a long and arduous task, but we can at least make sure we extend our hands to them, giving them an opportunity to hopefully make a new decision.

Perhaps the ASCC could invite students to participate in an open forum, where they can share their voice on issues that are important to them. Let’s make sure we hear them out, and don’t ignore their point of view. We’re not here to judge; we’re here to help.

Whatever the solution may be, something needs to be done. We don’t want to see another one of our fellow students dead or in jail. We have the ability to be positive influences and we have a chance to help.