The Council have prepared a new DVD with the aim of discouraging school children from committing acts of vandalism. The press release states:
‘Graffiti versus art’ is a subject long and hotly debated in Bristol, due partly to its links with Banksy and other home-grown graffiti artists. Now, Bristol City Council is aiming to stoke the fires of the debate again with a new DVD to hit all secondary schools and an internet campaign.
The DVD aims to stimulate discussion about graffiti, increase respect for their local environment and educate young people about the effect getting caught can have on their lives. It will also show them how participating in legal street art is a much better alternative to this illegal activity.
I've previously written on this subject, and without wishing to seem a outdated, old curmudgeon (which, I must confess, I am) I don't understand the need to "engage in a debate". They are kids - you tell them what moral code you expect, explain the consequences of infringing that code, and enforce the punishment. Framing the process as "debate" seems counterproductive.
“This campaign aims to help them see the flip side - not only does graffiti create a negative impact on an area which can actually lead to an increase in crime, but it is a criminal offence for which anyone over the age of 11 can be tried in court.”
Perhaps a more productive approach would be to apply vicarious liability to parents for the actions of their offspring. This approach brings with it some problems, but it offers a great incentive to those in a position to best enforce the required behavioural standard.
If you'd like a copy of the DVD, call 0117 922 3838 or email graffiti.education@bristol.gov.uk. Or alternatively there is Facebook Group, and a You Tube channel, from which the video will soon be available.
While you're waiting for the new vid, have a look at the "Consulting Bristol" presentation, produced two years ago by the Council's Corporate Consultation Team:
