August 30, 1996 Dear Azim, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to you and The Tariq Khamisa Foundation for your extraordinary efforts to find solutions to youth violence in our community. The success of the Foundation serves as testimony that positive results can come from negative circumstances. The Tariq Khamisa Foundation has been in existence for a very short time, but already has increased awareness and activism in the community. Most importantly, there is a renewed focus on teaching young people to make positive choices with their lives. By initiating the Violent Impact Forum, you have engaged San Diego school children in an open dialogue about peer pressure, gangs, drugs, and violence. I was touched by the response of one student who wrote: "Some of the positive choices I will make are to stay in school, stay away from drugs, violence and crime, make my own decisions, and lastly, never give up." I wish you and the Foundation continued success so that all our children will steer clear of violence and make these positive choices. Their future and the future of San Diego depends on it. Sincerely,
SUSAN GOLDING Mayor
City of San Diego |
