Disclaimer: Content on the YP4 blog does not necessarily reflect the views of Young People For or People For the American Way Foundation. The views, ideas, statements or claims posted on this site by members of the public cannot in any way be attributed to either Young People For or People For the American Way Foundation.
Summit Over, Work Begins
I should start with my solid handshake and 30 second pitch- hello, my name is Antoinette Davis and I am a 2009 YP4 Fellow. My blueprint involves using technology to communicate and engage the citizens of Pittsburgh and particularly college students in political matters and social issues.
June Featured Fellows
[asset|aid=808|format=image|formatter=asset|title=featured_fellow_mattpopek_treythomas.png|width=200|height=215|align=left|resizable=true] I sat down with fellows Matt Popek and Trey Thomas to talk about their organization Penn State Represent, the sexiness of non-partisan voter registration and the ways football and politics don't mix. At certain points chaos ensues, and we learn the power of positive thinking. Check it out!
April Feature Fellows: Ash Arp and Chris Duarte
Our April featured fellows Ash Arp and Chris Duarte turned a hate crime into an[asset|aid=757|format=image|formatter=asset|title=Ash Arp and Chris Duarte|width=240|height=219|align=right|resizable=true] opportunity for education on their campus by founding Project DATE: Diversity Allies Team for Education. I had an opportunity to chat with Ash and Chris about their cause, the future of the progressive movement and their inspiration. Check it out!
2007 Summit: Still Loving the Struggle
The 2007 Summit is off to an amazing start. I have enjoyed meeting with future leaders who are busting with powerful ideas and energy. The 2007 YP4 Fellows have impressed me with their optimism for a better world, their appreciation and respect for our planet, and their understanding of the crucial need for a broad, inclusive social justice movement.
Community Action Day is a Success
As Iara mentioned in an earlier post over the weekend, the 2006 Class of Young People For Fellows and founders of University Students United www.usumichigan.com sponsored a Community Action Day in Detroit Michigan in order to educate and empower community members to help defeat the misnamed Michigan Civil Rights Initiative (MCRI) that will be on the ballot this November in Michigan.
If it becomes law, the MCRI will eliminate affirmative action in the state of Michigan.
Throughout the day, about 35 members of the community participated in workshops designed to educate community members on the facts and myths surrounding affirmative action and teach people how to speak knowledgeably and confidently about their support of affirmative action. Several local organization, including University Students United, One United Michigan and the Michigan Youth Division of the NAACP came together to provide an amazing group of speakers and trainers.