Community Conversations for Change

If not you, then who?

If not now, then when?

YVCHR has launched a virtual youth-directed series of discussions on inequality, police relations, and personal stories which will culminate in a session on youth action. This is session 4 of the six-part series that began on MLK Day, January 18th, and is continuing on Saturdays throughout the rest of January and February.

Registration is closed for this project.

Session Outline

Session 1: Hear My Story   (January 18th 11 am - 12:30 pm)

In this session, youth of color shared their stories and experiences within the community.

Session 2: Educate Us  (January 23rd 11 am - 12:30 pm)

In this session we covered topics such as systemic racism and implicit bias while reflecting on the history of racism in our county.

Session 3: Dialogue with Police Officers  (January 30th 11 am - 12:30 pm)

In this session police officers joined in to listen to youth experiences and concerns and engage in dialogue about growing tension.

Session 4: Getting to Know Each Other   (February 6th 11 am - 12:30 pm)

In small group sessions, youth will have the opportunity to get to know other youth in the community who are different from themselves. Talking, listening, sharing, and then working on a small project together will help create bridges of understanding across physical divides.

Session 5: A Call to Action – Part 1 and Part 2   (February 13th and 20th 11 am - 12:30 pm)

In this two-meeting session we will brainstorm action item that can be taken to help illuminate the problem and help address it. Youth are the key to change. Youth have a strong voice and are encouraged to use it. Like a pebble thrown into a pond, the work of this group will ripple outwards into the community, spreading acceptance of differences and igniting the call for change. 

Session 6: The Celebration (February 27th 11 am to 12:30 pm)*

In our last session we will meet in in-person (location TBD) to celebrate the work we are doing and the new people we have met. *This session will be dependent on COVID restrictions, safety and the weather in February.