🏛️ Kansas City Youth-Led Initiatives: Empowering Change in Our Community

Kansas City is witnessing a surge of youth-led initiatives aimed at addressing pressing community issues. From violence prevention to educational advocacy, local teens are stepping up to make a difference.

🗣️ Youth Violence Prevention Hotline

In response to escalating violence, 15-year-old Giulian Williams proposed a youth-specific conflict hotline to provide teens with an anonymous avenue to seek help before situations escalate. His initiative has garnered support from the Kansas City City Council, with plans for a feasibility study underway to assess its implementation .

🎓 Youth Leadership Council in Wyandotte County

Mayor Tyrone A. Garner has launched a Youth Leadership Council for 11th and 12th-grade students in Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas. This council aims to empower students by providing them with mentorship and opportunities to engage in community projects, fostering leadership skills and civic responsibility .

🏗️ Proposed Youth Entertainment District

Kansas City's Parks and Recreation Department has approved the pre-development of a youth entertainment district in the 3rd District. The proposed area includes amenities like a skate park, zip line, and amphitheater, designed to provide safe recreational spaces for young people. The project is currently in its early stages, with community input being solicited .

🧑‍🎓 Youth Voice Project

Building Our Future's Youth Voice Project offers high school students the opportunity to engage in leadership development and community service. Participants have organized events like the Youth-Led Town Hall School Board Candidate Forum, providing a platform for students to voice their concerns and influence educational policies .

🌎 National Issues Affecting Students: A Breakdown for Youth

💰 Student Loan Changes: What’s Impacting You?

The federal government has introduced several changes to student loan policies, which could have a lasting impact on students and future graduates. With loan repayments resuming after the pandemic relief period, many students are concerned about the financial burden.

• Interest Rates & Repayment Plans:
  The Biden administration's plans to address student loans include programs aimed at reducing monthly payments, but high-interest rates and the uncertainty around the future of loan forgiveness remain pressing issues.

  • Impact: With increasing interest rates, it will be harder for young graduates to manage their finances and pay off their loans effectively.

  • Student Advocacy: Youth organizations and HSDA chapters are raising their voices to call for a permanent solution to student loan debt, including advocating for broader forgiveness plans and income-driven repayment systems.

🌍 Climate Policy: The Future of Our Planet

Climate change is one of the most critical issues for today's youth. The Trump administration’s rollbacks on environmental regulations, such as the withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, continue to impact how the U.S. addresses global warming and environmental protections.

• Youth-Led Action:
  Young activists from across the country are calling for stronger federal climate policies, focusing on renewable energy investments, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and implementing carbon taxes. Youth groups are organizing protests and petitions, demanding better legislation to combat climate change.

  • Impact: Youth are advocating for policies that will ensure a healthier environment for future generations and prevent the detrimental effects of climate change from worsening.

⚖️ Civil Rights Legislation: Protecting the Rights of All Americans

The fight for civil rights remains a central focus in the U.S., with laws and policies constantly evolving. Under both Trump and Biden administrations, various civil rights issues have emerged, including voting rights, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ protections.

• Voting Rights:
  The Trump administration’s attempts to impose stricter voter ID laws and limit mail-in voting were seen as an obstacle to voter participation. In contrast, the Biden administration is pushing for federal legislation to protect voting rights, especially for minority groups.

  • Impact: These debates around voting rights directly affect young voters, especially students from marginalized communities, who are advocating for easier access to voting through reforms like automatic voter registration and extended voting periods.

• LGBTQ+ Rights:
  Under Trump, there were several policy reversals that affected the LGBTQ+ community, including the military ban on transgender service members and efforts to roll back protections in healthcare. Youth activists are working to ensure that all LGBTQ+ individuals, especially youth, are granted full equality and protection under the law.

🗳️ Elections 101: What Students Need to Know

With the 2024 election cycle in full swing, it's important for students to understand how they can make their voices heard. Whether you’re voting in local elections or preparing for future presidential elections, staying informed is key.

• Voter Guides:
  Youth-led organizations like KCHSDA are providing resources to help students navigate the voting process, from understanding local elections to registering to vote. The goal is to ensure that young voters are prepared to make informed decisions on Election Day.

  • Key Deadlines: Make sure to check local election deadlines and understand your state's voter registration requirements. In many states, students can register early and vote by absentee ballot if they will be away at college.

• Presidential & Congressional Campaigns:
  As the presidential race heats up, youth are not only following candidates' platforms but are also organizing campaigns to advocate for policies that reflect their values. This includes pushing for climate action, student loan reforms, and civil rights protections.

  • Impact: Youth are stepping into the spotlight during this election season, whether by organizing rallies, engaging in political debates, or amplifying their voices on social media.

📣 How Can You Get Involved?

• Join the Conversation:
  Follow youth-led movements and engage in conversations around these issues. Youth chapters across the country are organizing events, petitions, and meetings with elected officials to advocate for change.

• Advocate for Change:
  Whether it's signing a petition, participating in a protest, or calling your representatives, your voice matters. Get involved with your local HSDA chapter or another youth group to make your opinions known.

• Vote:
  If you’re eligible, make sure you register to vote and cast your ballot. Your vote is a powerful tool to influence the future.