In honor of Juneteenth, our Pathways residents engaged in a group dialogue about the significance of the day. “Keep on learning” was the theme throughout the conversation. Youth discussed how current efforts to suppress history jeopardizes the ability to achieve a more equitable future for all. The UFC counselor who led this conversation reflected on the experience and said, “I am honored to join in fellowship with such sharp young minds and motivated ‘positive youth development’ focused team members.”

At United Friends, it is always our goal to designate time and provide a safe place for our young people to speak their minds and engage in powerful conversations about their place in the world. We aim to empower them, give them a voice, and nurture their individual agency.