FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 20, 2015
CONTACT: Dionne Johnson Calhoun – 202.724.8028; dcalhoun@dccouncil.us
(WASHINGTON, DC) – A packed room of teens filled the R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center on Saturday, October 17, for Councilmember Kenyan R. McDuffie’s (D-Ward 5) youth-led summit against violence, #YouthSpeakDC. The summit, facilitated by WPGC 95.5 radio personality SunniAndTheCity was a kick-off to the Black Women for Positive Change 2015 Week of Non-Violence, October 17-25, of which Councilmember McDuffie is a Co-Chair.
#YouthSpeakDC, comprised of 11 youth panelists, brought forth a powerful discussion with topics focused on the spike in violent crime in the District, the power of social media, bullying, self-examination in an effort to better oneself, and the dangerous impact of synthetic drug usage. The youth ended the conversation providing suggestions of resources that they need to be productive such as mentorship opportunities in every recreation center with robust programming.
“I was truly amazed by the testimony from our youth. I purposely did not speak until the end of the discussion because I wanted to hear directly from the youth. They are our future leaders, and we wanted the conversation to be open and candid,” said McDuffie. “We want #YouthSpeakDC to continue beyond Saturday’s summit. We plan to build on the momentum from the summit and have created a #YouthSpeakDC page on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram so that our youth will have this platform to engage on issues that impact them.
This ongoing effort will be in conjunction with the many partners that were active in planning, promoting and identifying youth.
Studio202DC provided live streaming for the discussion, now on demand. Click here:
Please join the conversation:
Twitter – @YouthSpeakDC Facebook – Facebook.com/YouthSpeakDC Instragram – youthspeakdc
