MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris hosted a Zoom meeting Tuesday afternoon to address the mental health impact of the increased military presence on Memphis’ youth. Mental health professionals, youth advocates, and students discussed the challenges young people face due to the National Guard’s involvement in the Memphis Safe Task Force and the rising presence of law enforcement in their communities.
What Happened
The meeting included presentations by licensed school psychologist Dr. Karen Streeter, Refugee Empowerment Program Deputy Director Sara Babb, youth advocate Issac James, and high school student Maddie Thomas, a Shelby County Youth Council member. Thomas, who was honored to speak alongside experts, highlighted the strain on young people’s mental health, especially in lower-income Black communities like Memphis.
“For many young people, especially in lower-income Black communities, the presence of increased law enforcement and the National Guard represents a spike in fear and anxiety,” Thomas explained. “With social media exposing us to videos of police brutality and armored vehicles in our streets, it’s causing anxiety that shouldn’t be felt by kids who already face many struggles.”
Youth Concerns and Mental Health Impact
The discussion centered on how the military presence, part of the Memphis Safe Task Force, is negatively impacting the mental health of youth, causing increased anxiety, stress, and fear. Thomas shared that even simple activities like walking home from school or hanging out with friends have become stressful for kids, who worry about potential encounters with law enforcement.
“Kids shouldn’t have to worry about brutality or being treated unfairly just for being out in their own neighborhoods,” she said. “These are thoughts that no child should have to face.” Additionally, Thomas mentioned how fear from the Hispanic and Latin communities, including concerns about ICE presence, has also been affecting the youth’s daily lives.
Actions Taken and Community Support
Mayor Harris acknowledged these concerns and is working to arrange a meeting with ICE to discuss the establishment of “protected zones” in schools to provide a safe space for youth and families. “Many folks have demanded protected zones to prevent things like family separation and to ensure a safer environment for kids,” Harris said.
Dr. Streeter emphasized the short-term and long-term effects of trauma on youth. “In the short term, kids may experience increased anxiety, school phobias, or behavioral changes like aggression or timidity. They might also struggle to focus in school, leading to a decline in academic performance,” Streeter said. She stressed that parents should maintain open communication with their children, as trauma can also stem from hearing about incidents or seeing them on social media.
Closing Remarks
The meeting concluded with a focus on the importance of support and communication from teachers, guidance counselors, and parents to help children cope with the emotional and psychological toll of living in such a heightened environment. Mental health advocates continue to push for systemic changes to protect children and address the psychological impacts of such military and law enforcement presence in communities.
Mayor Harris and the community leaders urged continued dialogue and action to support Memphis’ youth as they navigate these challenging circumstances.
