Cities Rally Behind President Obama's 'My Brothers' Keeper' Initiative

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Feb 27, 2014, 05:49 ET

WASHINGTON, Feb. 27, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Following President Barack Obama's announcement today of the "My Brother's Keeper" initiative, National League of Cities President Chris Coleman, Mayor of Saint Paul, Minn., released this statement:

"President Obama's announcement today of the 'My Brother's Keeper' initiative is an opportunity to address the systematic barriers to success faced by many young men of color. The President is to be commended for his leadership in trying to identify ways to reach these young men and work with them in building life skills they need to reach their potential.

"On a community level, cities must do the same. There are many local efforts – including Cities United – that are confronting the challenges these men face in many cities across the country. It is great to see the Administration not only encouraging these programs, but looking to create a strong partnership between federal and local governments, the business community and philanthropic organizations to identify what works and promote those successes in other parts of the nation.

"This initiative should be commended for bringing local leaders critical support and resources needed to bring hope and opportunity to every American."

The National League of Cities (NLC) is dedicated to helping city leaders build better communities. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans. NLC administers the Cities United initiative, which was launched in 2011. Support for the initiative comes from NLC, Casey Family Programs and the Open Society Foundations' Campaign for Black Male Achievement.

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SOURCE National League of Cities