Community and culture are essential to help students build meaningful connections and figure out who they are. Spaces that allow students to interact with others similar to them and learn more about their culture is the perfect place to ensure this happens. The Black Teen Sumit that was hosted on Feb. 6 had all of these components, and allowed students and staff to come together. Students from West and North met at North in the skyloft to experience the activities. 

The morning started off with students in the auditorium listening to a five person panel made up of four students and a teacher discussing their culture, and the reactions they have received from non-black people towards their culture. An abundance of pride could be felt while listening to these students describe how their culture helps shape their lives. 

“I enjoyed being able to have a safe space where I could bond with fellow black people and talk more about our identities and culture,” senior Oyinkansola Ajana said. “We aren’t just one type of Black, but instead different types who each have different experiences to talk about.”

After the panel, students began entering their different sessions. Students were able to choose three out of 13 sessions. Each session differed greatly in activities, however, each had a common goal of providing students with a deeper knowledge of their culture. At the same time they were able to bond with their fellow students as they enjoyed shared interests.

“I really enjoyed the sense of community, belonging, and kinship I found at the Black Teen Summit. Along with the work we did to learn to take direct action to advocate for ourselves as students and as a community,” junior Ezekiel Wilson-Porter said. 

After hours of fun in the sessions, students wrapped up the day by entering a “safe place” based on what they identify as. These safe spaces included African, Black, Caribbean, and multicultural. In these safe places students were able to share similar experiences, thoughts, and difficulties of what it’s like being themselves. 

“I really enjoyed the multicultural space because it made me feel seen as someone who is half black,” junior Amber Weatherspoon said. 

The Black Teen Summit did exactly what it was supposed to. The entire time was filled with laughter and joy. Students got closer with their friends, while making new friends and even building new connections with the teachers who helped make the event possible.