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 5 part 1 of the six session 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 had the opportunity to get to know other youth in the community who are different from themselves.

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.