“We’re going to start out with some getting-to-know-you questions, before we get into the deeper discussions,” said LeVar Jones, host of BGCGW’s “Our Lives Matter” Teen Summit. Jones, Director of Teen Engagement at Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), previously served as the Director of Teen Advocacy and Engagement at BGCGW before moving to the national office in Atlanta—home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whom the Summit honored.

In the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy, Jones led a group of teens from the Germantown, Jelleff, Richard England 14, and FBR Clubs through thoughtful conversations that highlighted the leadership and advocacy skills of BGCGW youth. The event also commemorated the 10th anniversary of the #OurLivesMatter movement as well as the 96th birthday of Dr. King.

When asked about the most pressing issues facing teens today, the teens voiced concerns about harassment of women, academic pressure, mental health, glorification of violence, and identity-based bullying.

“What does it mean to normalize things?” replied Jones after a Member from Germantown noted that gun violence is normalized in her community. The room buzzed with responses about media literacy and the influence of social media on actions and behaviors.

The evening was steeped in a culture of inclusivity and equality, as youth from all four Clubs encouraged each other through snaps and applause while they passed microphones back and forth. At the conclusion of the event, Members took home worksheets to further explore community leadership and inspirational acts of heroism.

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