Dear 826 Boston Community,
826 youth writing centers provide safe spaces where students are heard and their stories are amplified. In recent weeks, the horrific killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, and Ahmaud Arbery have symbolized and magnified our country’s deep and painful history of systemic racism. 826 Boston stands in solidarity with our Black colleagues, students, and community members. We are dedicated to working with fellow 826 chapters in Minneapolis and other cities nationwide to center the voices of young people of color, and to dismantle white supremacy culture.
Through the COVID-19 crisis, 826 Boston’s digital programs have provided students with opportunities to stay connected and process their experiences through writing with the support of our talented team. As we reflect on our organization’s commitment to cultivating inclusive learning spaces, we would like to share the following educational resources that emphasize social and racial justice:
In the collections that 826 students write and publish, you will find inspiration. In their poetry, essays, and reflections, you will find a future that is brightened by brave and courageous voices. Thank you for standing with us in support of all of the strength and vision that their voices carry.
“She sings about the north star, she sings about freedom, she sings about the sage and el luna, her love of the earth beneath the blue bowl of the sky.”
—Asiyah, 826 Boston Youth Literary Advisory Board Team Leader
To learn more about 826 Boston, including how to support us in a variety of ways, please visit https://826boston.org/get-involved.
Sincerely,
Jessica Drench
Executive Director, 826 Boston
Gillian Kohli
Board President, 826 Boston
P.S. To hear more of Asiyah’s poetry, click here to view Matt Watson’s latest film, which features her work and her story.
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