Recap: State of the Youth-Conversation with CHOICES

On June 25th CHOICES, CRCQL’s Environmental Justice Youth Leadership group held a State of the Youth event where they were able to bring up their concerns to local government leaders.

It was very important for us to hold this event because often the voices of our youngest citizens are drowned out by the adults in their lives. Often, well-meaning adults will talk over our young folks, presume they know what’s best for them, and assume they know what affects them most. This event allowed our youth to freely express themselves and offer a real perspective on the issues affecting them.

We wanted to give a big thank you to all who attended this event, from our participants, members of 4 Circles, CMP radio, Chester Education Foundation, Chester Boys and Girls Club, Making a Change Group, TD Bank, Trinity Transitional House, Chester Block Captains, Spirit Newspaper, and all the parents of our CHOICES members. 

And also to our government leaders, Mayor Stefan Roots, State Rep. Carol Kazeem, and Will Jones, who took time out of their busy schedules to listen to our youth. 

Another big thank you to Dr. Fontaine, Ms. Jamira, Ms. Bonita, and Ms. Margaret for helping facilitate and guide our youth during this event. 

And last but not least, a big thank you to Ms. Stephanie and Ms. Lisa for catering and making sure everyone was well fed.