It’s been said youth is wasted on the young.
Not in the case of Andrew Faulkner and his classmates at Thunder Bay’s Pope John Paul II Elementary School. The 13-year-old led the charge Wednesday, as city officials kicked off Youth Week , raising a flag at City Hall following a music-filled celebration. “Youth’s are capable young people, like many you see here today, who bring positive change to a number of social justice issues,” Andrew said, addressing a foyer full of onlookers. “We’re in a position to not only empower our generation, but future generations. We are tomorrow’s leaders and together we can make great things happen.”
Andrew pointed to the homemade T-shirts many of his classmates were sporting. All were emblazoned with the words “I am,” with a personal statement, such as “talented,” “smart” and “nice” colourfully drawn in. On the back of each shirt the word “Respect” was stamped on in green. “We are asking you to share in our dignity, by listening to our thoughts and our ideas, and let us all work together toward the common good of all mankind, reaching overseas and lands unknown.”
Andrew added there are plenty of activities planned to keep youth awareness front and centre through May 7.
A kick-off event, hosted by Evergreen, is slated for Wednesday night at Minnesota Park. Other events include volunteer opportunities, a $2 swim at the Canada Games Complex, skateboarding events at Prince Arthur’s Landing, art events hosted by the Community Arts and Heritage Education Project. “And on May 6, at the Community Auditorium, there will be the “We Stand Up” anti-bullying event with Mark Kielburger and other special guests, along with local musical acts,” he said. “The week will finish off with Youth Week awards.”
Kim Baskin, the city’s program supervisor for child and youth programs, said Youth Week is a great week for youngsters already involved to help with the planning and those who aren’t involved to hear a positive message.
That message this week is definitely about respect, she added.
On that note, Coun. Joe Virdiramo had a piece of advice for children who might experience bullying, in person or online. “Bullying comes in all kinds of forms, in all kinds of environments. So when you’re sitting at your keyboard, at your computer or at your iPhone, if you think something comes through cyberspace, which is inappropriate, don’t respond. Walk away,” he said.
Find more information about Youth Week on the City of Thunder Bay website :
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