Youth Equity Congress
The D15 Youth Equity Congress is a transformative initiative designed to empower students from diverse backgrounds across grades 4-12 in the district. This youth congress brings together up to 70 participants for a series of workshops focused on diversity, inclusion, and community engagement.
- Students engage in workshops that explore themes of diversity, equity and inclusion, using various forms of interactive group dynamics. They learn to express their thoughts through leadership, fostering student voice, choice and agency.
- Participants collaborate on a Service-Learning Project, gaining skills in advocacy, shared responsibility, teamwork, and debate. This hands-on experience equips them to become active contributors to their school communities.
By participating in the Youth Equity Congress, students not only improve leadership and advocacy skills, but also gain confidence in their ability to effect change. They are encouraged to bring their learnings back to their schools, joining Equity Teams to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This fosters a culture where student voices are valued, leading to potential policy changes and deeper DEI conversations within school communities.
The program's vision extends beyond individual student growth to systemic change within schools. Participants are empowered to advocate for DEI-related policies and initiatives, promoting a sense of belonging and community among all students.
The Youth Equity Congress is a pivotal opportunity for self discovery, developing crucial skills, amplifying their voices, and driving positive change within their schools and beyond. By nurturing a generation of informed, empowered young leaders, the program aims to create a more inclusive and equitable educational environment district-wide.
Omar Griles