YVC Community Conversations For Change

Calling on youth age 14-18 who want to be part of the movement addressing racial inequality in our community.

Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC) of Reading is launching a virtual youth-directed series of discussions on inequality, police relations, and personal stories which will culminate in a session on youth action. The six-part series beginning July 2 will be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings in July. Registration is required to participate in the series. Participants should committ to attending at least 5 of the 6 sessions. Zoom details will be emailed to registered participants prior to the first session.

Session 1: Hear My Story (Thursday July 2, 7-8:30 pm)

Be part of the solution by listening to the perspectives of those who are different from you.

In this session, youth of color will share their stories and experiences within this community. Having a platform to be heard by your peers who are different from you is the first step that leads to understanding and empathy. It is essential that youth allies listen to, hear, and bear witness to the feelings and experiences of their peers. The session will conclude with question and answer dialogue about people of color perspectives.

Session 2: Educate Us (Tuesday July 7, 7-8:30 pm)

How can we move forward and address a situation if we don’t really understand the problem? Education is the key to changing everything -- minds, perspectives, hearts and eventually legislation. In this session we will cover topics such as systemic racism and implicit bias while reflecting on the history of racism in our county.

Session 3: Dialogue with Police Officers (Thursday July 9, 7-8:30 pm)

This piece of the puzzle cannot be ignored. The relationship between the police and the community, especially communities of color, is completely strained right now. Police officers will join the session to listen to youth experiences and concerns and engage in dialogue about growing tension. Hearing the perspectives of both groups may lead to better understanding, compassion, and begin repairing a damaged relationship.

Session 4: Getting to Know Each Other (small group meetings scheduled Tuesday July 14 and Thursday July 16 – times TBD)

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 (Tuesday July 21, 7-8:30 PM)

In this 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 (Thursday July 23, 7-8 PM)

In our last session we will meet in in person (location TBD as social distancing guidelines allow) to celebrate the work we are doing and the new people we have met.

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