‘Rooted in Community, Rising as Leaders’ Summit Brings Fresno Youth Together for Learning and Action

This past June, the Education and Leadership Foundation (ELF) coordinated and participated in a youth-centered summit titled, “Rooted in Community, Rising as Leader,” at the Fresno Center, featuring interactive activities, meaningful conversations, a Know Your Rights workshop, and special performances.

Local dance artist Tsim Nuj delighted attendees with a special performance, which featured his practice of movement and engaged participants. The performance celebrated community, identity, and belonging.

To culminate, there was a viewing of the short film ‘Birth of a Mind’ (2023), a movie about the way parents impose certain beliefs upon their children through the conversations they have. Following the screening, participants engaged in a Q&A with the film’s writer and director, Daren Dien, sparking important questions addressing culture, assimilation, stereotypes, and discrimination. The youth were particularly interested in the question, “What does it mean to be American?”

Gustavo Gasca Gomez from the ELF reflected on the event, expressing admiration for youth and their interest to make their communities rise, “It’s inspiring! When planning the event, we hoped they would connect with the content but I’m most impressed with the way they connected with one another.”

The event was part of the Stop the Hate program, which is dedicated to spreading awareness of racial violence and discrimination prevention, and advocating for resources for victims and vulnerable communities.

This event was made possible by the Central Valley Stop the Hate Collaborative members, which include ELF, The Center at Sierra Health Foundation (funder), Everyday Impact Consulting, The Fresno Center, the Jakara Movement, and Stone Soup Fresno.