On December 6, 2022 we celebrated the JAYC’s 5th annual graduation ceremony. The event took place at the Forum of Columbia and was introduced with opening remarks by program director Jarrell Daniels and facilitator Judge Jeanine Johnson.
On December 6, 2022 we celebrated the JAYC’s 5th annual graduation ceremony. The event took place at the Forum of Columbia and was introduced with opening remarks by program director Jarrell Daniels and facilitator Judge Jeanine Johnson.
The program kicked off with keynote speaker Dr. Yusef Salaam, a member of the Exonerated Five and author of Better Not Bitter. Throughout his speech, Dr. Salaam emphasized the importance of education, creative expression, and the power of writing one’s own narrative.
Dr. Salaam emphasized the importance of having role models to look up to, saying simply and powerfully: “If you can’t see it, you can’t be it.”
“Dream,” he said addressing the graduates, “with your eyes wide open. And then dream some more.”
I want you to look at your life as if everything that happened to you, happened for you.
Following these remarks, the Justice Ambassadors each presented their group policy proposals. The members spoke with care, passion, and urgency, calling for more resources, support, and mentorship to be poured into their communities. The presentations included a proposal for enhanced community centers, restorative healing circles to combat gun violence, a case for sustainable youth employment funds, and crisis prevention curriculum in school systems.
Each of the youth ambassadors and city officials received a graduation diploma, marking their completion of the eight week program that has included conversations in a classroom setting on Tuesdays and site visits to local organizations and government agencies on Thursdays.
A reception followed the ceremony, and graduates were met with celebration and support from friends and family in attendance, Columbia University staff and students, community leaders, and government officials.
