Inaugural Graffiti Wipeout Conference: March 27

Inaugural Graffiti Wipeout Conference set for March 27; Councilmember Jasso to announce Graffiti Tip Line

DALLAS, TX – Councilmember Delia D. Jasso will announce creation of a City of Dallas Graffiti Tip Line at the first District 1 and Graffiti Wipeout Conference, set for 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 27, at Hector P. Garcia Middle School, 700 E. Eighth St. The Tip Line will allow residents and business owners to anonymously report graffiti vandalism.

“Graffiti is a problem plaguing every American city and costs taxpayers an estimated $8 billion a year to clean up,” Jasso said. “And when it is allowed to take over a neighborhood, graffiti often triggers other crimes.” Parents, children and educators are invited to participate in the conference, featuring panelists from the Graffiti Abatement Team, Dallas Police Gang Unit, Community Prosecutor Team, and other special guests.” In addition, we are partnering with the Dallas Independent School District and TXU Energy.

“The goal of the conference is to provide parents and children a forum to discuss actions and consequences relating to illegal activity, safety and community and environmental responsibility,” Jasso said. “We also want to inform the public about the legalities and fines associated with graffiti vandalism,” she said.

Two programs will focus on redirecting youth engaged in graffiti vandalism. Potential sponsors are being identified for funding support to hold a contest in which young people create murals and compete for prizes. A local arts group will work with youth to develop an original play entitled “Graffiti Hurts.”

An anti-graffiti coloring book and curriculum has also been developed and will be available to attendees to help children understand the hazards of graffiti. In addition, a local recording artist will show his music video based on an original hip-hop song with an anti-graffiti message.

“Tackling problems like graffiti are essential to creating safe, clean, sustainable and prosperous communities,” Jasso said. We invite corporate sponsors and organizations and the community as a whole to participate in this important initiative. For more information, please call (214) 670- 4052.