Background
Citywide’s beginnings are rooted in youth organizing. The program started when several Latinx youth at Thurston High School reached out for mentorship to support them in responding to the racism they were facing. They contacted Johanis Tadeo, a young adult whom they felt understood the historical, cultural, and political underpinnings of their experiences. Another young adult, Roxanna Perez Sanchez, was also involved in the second year and offered mentorship to the young women in the group as well as other logistical support. Johanis ran the program for three years as a chapter of the national MEChA organization, using his own money to fund it, showing strong dedication to his community and desire to support youth of color who share some of his experience growing up in Springfield and Lane County.
Citywide Co-Director Samantha Alcantar, who is also one of the program’s co-founders, defines Citywide as a “youth activist program for social justice.” The program aims to serve Latinx youth in developing cultural identity through connection with Indigenous heritage; understanding the cultural, colonial and resistance histories of their ancestors; and by developing political knowledge and advocacy skills. Citywide offers youth mentorship including: scholastic tutoring, professional skill development, and leadership development. The program has a strong partnership with KEPW and La E-Kiss radio stations to run a youth radio project at the CALC office, where the youth express political views about current events and gain professional skills.
Vision & Mission
Citywide provides an opportunity to young people at a crucial moment in their lives to build their capacity and ambition, as well as alter their life courses. Using curriculum built upon the values of Community, Culture, College, and Careers, City Wide offers life-altering experiences in which high school students develop their leadership skills, develop strategies to pursue higher education, improve their self-esteem and cultural awareness while meeting with legislators, networking with business leaders, and developing relationships with other peers.
Vision: to help build Latinx youth leaders in our communities
Mission: to motivate young people to pursue their education, become involved and engaged members of their communities
Goals:
- challenge oppressive ideologies, systems, remarks and actions
- enhancing and developing their leadership skills
- academic preparation, develop strategies to pursue higher education
- improve their self-esteem and cultural awareness
- meeting with legislators, networking with business leaders, and developing relationships with other peers
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