Apr 25 2009
19th Annual Youth and Law Forum:
A model for Mentorship
Seattle’s youth make well-informed career and life choices
On the morning of April 18th, 2009, I was honored to give the keynote address to almost 100 youth at the 19th Annual Youth and Law Forum, held at the First AME Church, Seattle. I have been involved in the Forum since it first began in 1990. This year’s theme, Law and Order, focused on teaching young people how to better understand the judicial and law enforcement fields from the very people who serve in them, as well as educate youth on court procedures and their legal rights and responsibilities.
This city-wide Forum provided an excellent opportunity to build the confidence of Seattle’s students and help them make well-informed decisions about their career path and life choices. For many, it was a first step in positioning Seattle’s youth for today’s challenging and diverse job market. I observed relationships develop, confidence gained and respect practiced. Young people shouted with confidence their goals to attend college, to be respectful, to become teachers, lawyers, police officers, actors, and the like. They thought about the obstacles in front of them, the steps needed to achieve their goals, and finally understood that every obstacle could be overcome.
I was pleased to see these young people receive instruction on how to develop better relationships with law enforcement officials, performed CSI-style evidence detection, and compete for prizes. Police, sheriff and state patrol officers also took an active role in simulated situations, uncovering actual behind-the-scenes scenarios of some of the most challenging areas of the law. It is my hope that more youth will enroll and participate in next year’s 20th Annual Youth and Law Forum.
Read the coverage from the Seattle Medium: “Annual Youth And Law Forum Provides Reality Check, Inspires Youth”
Photo credit: Seattle Medium/Chris B. Bennett
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