‘I don’t want to see those syringes on our street again,’ declares Madlyn Stokely, a lifelong resident of Harlem. As the president of a volunteer program dedicated to helping residents, Madlyn has witnessed firsthand the challenges her community faces with drug exposure and addiction.
Growing up in Harlem, Madlyn saw her neighborhood transform as systemic racism and inequality paved the way for drugs to infiltrate the streets. ‘It wasn’t always like this,’ she reflects. ‘But over time, we saw how neglect and policies affected our community.’
Determined to make a change, Madlyn took action. She organized neighborhood clean-ups, established outreach programs, and worked tirelessly to provide support for those struggling with addiction. ‘It’s about reclaiming our streets and offering hope,’ she explains.
In her conversation on the episode of Finding True America, Madlyn shares poignant stories of resilience and the power of community. She highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of addiction and the systemic issues that brought it to Harlem.
‘Our fight is not just against drugs, but against the structures that allowed them here,’ Madlyn emphasizes. ‘We need to work together to build a safer, healthier future for our children.’
Madlyn’s story is a testament to the impact one person can have. Her dedication inspires others to join the cause and showcases the strength of community activism in the face of adversity.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
