On Tuesday, September 15^th, Alaska Job Corps Y2Y students launched a powerful initiative to stop violence and bullying, on their center, in public areas, at their homes and in worksites.  This roll-out effort is the result of weeks of work and planning. At a full center wide assembly, the 12 member steering committee, announced and explained, in passionate terms, the goals and missions of the Youth-2-Youth anti-violence campaign.

Spokesman, DJ Felder, stated clearly, “It’s time for us to take back our culture.  It’s time for  youth to stand up and say, enough is enough.   No more violence.  No more bullying. “

At first the crowd was politely quiet, but as student after student came up to the microphone, the crowd became energized.

“This is about placing value on a human life, “said Robert Vandenberg.

“This is about Respect,” said George Kameroff, an Alaskan Native from Juneau.

Tiani Beaman offered a personal story of bullying, along with an impassioned plea for others to join their group.  The response was huge.  Students and staff lined up to sign a pledge to no violence.

“I, _____, as an Alaska Job Corps student/staff, pledge to support those in need, to stand up for WHAT IS RIGHT, and to help those who cannot help themselves.

I will be a better person and a positive role model.

I may be just one person against violence, but when we stand together and rise together, we are strong.  I pledge to follow the Job Corps guidelines and Youth2Youth mission to Rise and Stand together to end the violence. “

Graphic Tshirts are being worn with regularity by staff and students who have signed the pledge. In every classroom, lunchroom, and in leisure time, the Anti Violence logo shows up as a constant reminder of the student’s mission.

The Y2Y group meets every Tuesday and Thursday and big plans are being prepared.  At a debrief meeting, the motivation and understanding was discussed.  Students noted that during the launch rally in the gymnasium, more than a few concepts of the anti-violence campaign needed some reworking and clarification, and that will be discussed in the small focus groups, which are scheduled for next week, along with homemade cookies.

“This is just the tip of the iceberg and the initial enthusiasm will fade.  It is important to keep this rolling so it becomes real and a part of our culture,”  explained Todd Walker.  Therefore iInspirational speakers and movies are also  lined up.

Over fifty letters have gone out to leaders, schools, various youth groups and company presidents asking for signature and support for this mission. Follow-up emails go out next week.   A big Reveal is scheduled for November, once pledges are received from community and statewide leadership.  The Y2Y students want a strong community and a strong social media presence.  They have a radio show scheduled in October and expect to take their message to other schools, Chambers of Commerce and the Alaska Federation of Native Annual Meeting.

Alaska Job Corps stands against Violence