The ACLU-WV is thrilled to announce our very first convening for BIPOC youth (Black, Indigenous, people of color) ages 14-24 from across WV!
Join us for a fun evening of community building through conversation, food, games, music, and more! Register to vote, discover community and statewide resources, learn about your rights in school and in your community, and explore democracy and change-making in action through a tabletop game.
While we know BIPOC student experiences are as varied as there are individuals, West Virginia schools continue to fail students from historically excluded communities. A recently released report on school discipline in the state showed that our schools are punishing some of our most vulnerable students at astonishing rates. The State School Board President called the situation an “epic” crisis with 20 percent of Black students having been suspended at least once last school year compared to 10 percent of white students and 11 percent of the school population having lost over 175,000 instructional days. Studies show that these disparities cause academic strain, increase drop out rates, and more. In our state, we know many of these students are isolated from peers who shared their lived experience, making it all the more difficult to navigate challenges that arise in the school environment. Our students deserve better.
This event will be held in Charleston (specific details will be provided to those who register for security purposes) on July 12 and will be completely free to participants. Those who need financial or other assistance with transportation are encouraged to include this in their registration form or reach out to us directly as travel assistance may be available.
Ready to attend? Register here today!
Follow our event page on Facebook for details and updates.
