Young Men of Color Symposium a Success!

More than 110 young self-identified men of color from 15 area independent schools—and one from Minnesota—recently joined more than 40 parent, board, faculty and staff volunteer facilitators in launching a new venture for Parker as the school hosted the first Chicago Young Men of Color Symposium.

 

Featuring opening remarks by Upper School Head Justin Brandon, an inspiring keynote address by author and CEO of the poverty-fighting organization Robin Hood Wes Moore and skillful facilitation by  Dwight Vidale, this day-long gathering provided participants with opportunities to explore their multiple identities and learn skills geared towards self-advocacy and community building through workshops and facilitator-led conversations. The adult chaperones also participated in a variety of workshops, designed by Parker community members, to help them critically examine how to create and sustain courageous, safe spaces within their schools and beyond to effectively serve young self-identified men of color.

 

Many thanks to the members of our community who contributed their time, thought and attention to make this important event a reality for the school!