How we’re preparing for
the upcoming trial of Derek Chauvin
To young people, their families and all members of our community who teach, coach, support, mentor, educate, engage, employ, protect, and supervise youth and the spaces they are in.
We can anticipate many shifts happening this spring. Many students are headed back to middle and high school and we are hopeful about the COVID-19 vaccine but know the transition will take more time. We are also faced with potential impacts related to the trial of Derek Chauvin; the Minneapolis police officer involved in the murder of George Floyd.
As we engaged young people last spring and summer we learned that they were faced with processing profound violence, injustice and racial conflict that had been built up in our communities for decades – and in many ways they felt unsupported.
As the jury selection for Derek Chauvin’s trial is set to begin today, we are aware that there will be varied emotions surrounding the trial and it’s results. We are working with our public partners, young people and other adults in the community, to prepare safe and culturally responsive spaces for young people. Our work is to ensure that youth will know they have dedicated spaces to be seen and heard, as well as feel connected and safe.
We encourage you to join us for a conversation around how to prepare spaces for safe, anti-racist and culturally responsive conversations. If you are interested in joining us, sign up below.
You can find the latest information on this trial on a few sources.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Gilgen, Executive Director, The Brooklyn Bridge Alliance for Youth
Jeffrey Lunde, Alliance Chair, Hennepin County Commissioner
Susan Pha, Alliance Co-chair, City of Brooklyn Park Councilmember
Thomas Brooks, Alliance Secretary, Osseo Area School Board Director
Helen Bassett, Alliance Treasurer, Robbinsdale School Board Director
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