The African American Epidemic
             Have you heard about the nihilistic threat that affects our African American community? Urban nihilism is a social disease that permeates African American communities and can only cause destruction to ourselves and youth. We need to stop the spread of this detrimental illness, which leads to the downfall of our society, for the betterment of our community. This disease is the "loss of hope, and absence of meaning" in our communities (West,458). "The self-fulfilling prophecies of the nihilistic threat is that without hope there can be no future" (West 458). Issues that affect our future, range from the glamorization of the street/gangster life, the absence of parental guidance, to the lack of education in the African American communities.
             Unfortunately in today's society, the gangster life is glamorized. Media influences such as; TV shows, movies, and music lyrics romanticize the life of drug dealings, the disrespect of females, fashionable clothing, and cars. Many entertainers portray this lifestyle to their audiences, and the fans emulate it. Many of our youth join gangs to fulfill this gangster or street life. They begin to sell drugs, steal, or commit other offenses in order to attain desired material possessions. This gangster lifestyle can only hinder their lives and cause crime and suffering in our communities. In the song "Str8 Ballin" by Tupac Shakur he states that he would "rather die making money than live poor and legal". Many people growing up poor see this lifestyle and find a way to live it.
             In addition, there is a lack of guidance and positive role models in today's society. The lack of parenting causes youth to be confused about goals in life, values, and the importance of family. Many children can relate to lyrics "please send me a pops before puberty, the things I would
             ...