Despite being underage, many Georgetown students take advantage of D.C. dancing at nightclubs. But next Tuesday, D.C. Councilman Jim Graham (D-Ward 1) is going to introduce a bill that bars all those under 21-years-old from entering nightclubs, bars, and taverns. We join the Hoya’s editorial page in arguing that the bill is unnecessary.
Graham’s bill is in response to the killing of seventeen-year-old Taleshia Ford at Club 1919 on 9th street in Northwest Washington about a week ago. Jamel Mackabee entered into a heated argument with the club’s bouncer. Mackabee pulled out a gun, which discharged, shooting Taleshia Ford in the chest. Her death was senseless, but she didn’t die because she was 17. So why make a law targeting those under 21?
Graham is trying to curb underage drinking, but this is the wrong way to do so, especially because Taleshia died from a stray bullet, not an alcohol overdose. Graham’s legislation isn’t smart public policy, and at the same time it keeps young adults, many of whom are college students, from a fun and relatively safe activity.
The bill is wrong on safety as well. Instead of Graham’s reactionary bill, a more thoughtful idea would be to make nightclubs more secure themselves. This might mean tougher sanctions for clubs that allow underage drinking and stronger security regulations. The Metropolitan Police could also increase their presence at night spots.
Councilman Graham’s proposed legislation can also affect popular concert venues such as the 9:30 Club and the Black Cat, known for their all-ages shows. Graham said the legislation would not include these spots because they do such a good job of preventing minors from obtaining alcohol. But how can the City Council choose which venues meet the standards and which don’t?
Those under 21 weren’t the only ones in danger when Jamel Mackabee drew his gun. The right response to this tragedy is not to keep young adults like Taleshia from entering clubs, but to make the clubs safer from those like Mackabee.
