Rally held in support of proposed curfew and saggy pants ban

(Press-Register, John David Mercer)

MOBILE, Alabama 
On the eve of a probable City Council vote on Mayor Sam Jones’ crime package, a small group gathered in front of Mobile Government Plaza tonight to express support for the initiative.
The proposed curfew for youths age 17 and under, as well as a proposed ordinance banning the wearing of saggy pants in public are on Tuesday’s council agenda after being tabled for two consecutive meetings.
The curfew was the focal point of the rally, organized by Michelle Nolen-Schmidt, president of the Midtown-based Historic Murphy District Association.
“We are not looking for any situation where children are being denied their rights, but rather the ones who are in need of help can receive that help and be put in touch with social services that can help these children,” Nolen-Schmidt said.
Community activist Casmarah Mani said some in the community have apprehensions about civil liberties if a teen curfew went into effect. “But we feel it is another way to protect the safety of the citizens by supporting the mayor’s curfew,” Mani said.
Mobile Police Chief Micheal T. Williams came to the rally to reiterate his support for the measure.
“We are not asking for pay raises, and we are not asking for bonuses,” Williams said. “We are simply asking for a tool to do our jobs, so we can make this city better and make our city safer.”
Bishop Gloria W. Stewart, who along with Mani represent Citizens Against Violence, said that she visited O’Rourke Elementary School earlier Monday and got the support of all the teachers and administration there for the curfew.
Part of the proposed curfew would forbid school-age children and teens from roaming the streets unsupervised during school hours.
Nolen-Schmidt said that Midtown has long had to deal with suspended students, particularly from Murphy High School, remaining in the neighborhood around the school after being sent off-campus.
The rally drew a small crowd of about 30 citizens, but no members of the council were present. Barbara Drummond, spokeswoman for Jones, represented the mayor at the rally.