Youth Development Peer Network

by: Yas Ahmed

 

About a month ago, I had an opportunity to speak at a community vigil on the steps of City Hall, co-sponsored by the Youth Development Peer Network (YDPN) and Coleman Advocates for Children and Youth. The impetus for this community vigil was the budget crisis that looms over San Francisco and the imminent slashing of vital services to our city's youth and families, among other mandated cuts.

 

The broader message - and context - however, was that in moments of crisis or urgency, history tells us that what we truly value is tested. It causes us to go back to basics; what roots us as communities. We use our value base to inform our day-to-day decisions as individuals all the time. Now, when faced with one of the most dire economic realities this city has known, the question remains: what does San Francisco's leadership value? 

 

On Thursday, February 5th, San Francisco parents, youth and service providers had a chance to both answer and ask that question. A precursor to the Department of Children, Youth and their Families (DCYF) Citizen's Advisory Council meeting, where DCYF unveiled proposed budget cuts, the community vigil began with a percussion group of elementary school students. An altar with flowers, candles and about fifty signs from parents, children, service providers and other community members stated "I value..." rounded out the gathering, with various speakers.

 

Beyond the traditional symbolism of community gatherings - it was a call to action for the city's residents and leadership to look beyond the immediate economic context and ask what kinds of investments we as a city need to make that are truly consistent with San Francisco values. We as youth workers, parents and youth already know, and are speaking out. Let's hope the Mayor's listening.

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