St. Louis Freedom School, March 2019 AFSC
This last week of March was a “dream come true,” according to AFSC St. Louis Program Director Joshua Saleem. A humble and mighty group of youth participated in the Freedom School Alternative Spring Break with AFSC St. Louis and Youth Undoing Institutional Racism. Dancing, Networking, Singing, and Analysis Development: these are a few words that describe the program. It was a week filled with enrichment, love, and community. By the end of the program, nobody wanted to wake up out of the experience.
The young people learned about the history of racism in the United States, studied systems of power, and analyzed institutional injustice. One of the scholars noted: “You could just feel the good vibe when you walked in." The participants did more than develop a anti-racist lens. Dynamic and Brilliant co-facilitators Rachael Ibrahim and Heidi Lopez ensured that the participants built language and utilized their courage to be themselves.
Exercises such as the “Chocolate Monster” instilled values of teamwork and communication in a fun manner. Activities such as “Storytelling” encouraged the sharing of personality and background. Simulations such as “Why Are People Poor” promoted the debunking of myths surrounding poverty. Many connections were created that made the conversations and journey deep.
Tied to the educational component of the Freedom School were opportunities for the young people to listen to community and appeal to area elected officials around policy. During a panel titled “Community Lens: School Policing,” Program Associate Jonathan Pulphus moderated an electrifying discussion around accountability of school safety officers.
The panelists were Brienne Holmes, Antwon Vincent, Dorian Scott Jr., and James Rogers, and they brought a range of perspective and depth. Following the panel, the youth identified issues in their schools alongside policing concerns such as curriculum, technology, food, and teachers. This process led to a share out with elected School Board representatives Ms. Charli Cooksey and Ms. Joyce Roberts.
Logistically, setting up the Freedom School leaned on the power of creative partnership and trust of the youth. Alongside the co-facilitators, AFSC St. Louis partnered with Deaconess Foundation as a venue, Enterprise for transportation, and Chef Kenny Hayden for catered meals.
Deaconess’ warm and inviting space also hosted the 2018 AFSC St. Louis Summer Freedom School. Through Enterprise, AFSC St. Louis was able to provide commutes for youth from over four different schools and zip codes. Thanks to Chef Kenny, youth ate healthy Mexican, Italian, Asian, and Soul food options throughout the program. Together, it took a community to make the program happen.