City imposes ban on mentor from visiting community recreational facilities for a second occasion
In the heart of Alexandria, a dispute between Jackie Surratt, the founder of the Alexandria Fatherless Coalition, and city officials has sparked controversy. Surratt, who started the mentorship program due to his own lack of a father figure during his formative years, has been banned from city recreation centers for a year.
The ban, imposed in February 2024, followed a series of earlier incidents. RPCA Director Hashim Taylor, citing safety and well-being concerns, sent Surratt a notification banning him for one year. Surratt admits to an altercation with a staffer over pandemic-related rules, but claims that events scheduled by his nonprofit at Charles Houston Recreation Center were often not honored.
City Manager Jim Parajon is reviewing the information provided by Surratt, and City Attorney Cheran Ivery, along with Surratt and one of his board members, have met to discuss the ban. Surratt is advocating for the ban to be lifted, arguing that it prevents him from administering his mentorship program to Alexandria boys.
The program, which includes weekly meetings, guest speakers, and counseling for boys, has seen notable figures such as former Police Chief Don Hayes, local ministers, and retired professional athletes as speakers. Surratt has also attempted to address scheduling issues with RPCA staff via emails, but received no response.
In a recent incident, Surratt tried to flag down RPCA Director Hashim Taylor but was not acknowledged. This led to a confrontation, resulting in Surratt following Taylor for a quarter mile and speaking to him, which further solidified his ban from recreation centers.
The city is currently reconciling Surratt's perspective with reports from staff about the incidents before making a decision. City Director of Communications and Public Information, Ebony Fleming, has confirmed the meeting with the city manager and city attorney. The outcome of this review remains uncertain, but the city's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens is clear.
This is a developing story and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
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