HSTF Youth Demand Change!
MBTA Chief Paul MacMillan addresses a crowd of youth and community residents at a recent press conference on a youth-administered transit relations survey. (Photo by Yawu Miller, 2010.)
Youth Demand Change!
From February through April, youth from the Hyde Square Task Force distributed a survey to over 700 young people in Boston. Their intent? To determine the state of the relationship between teens and the MBTA police. The result? Change is needed.
In a recent press conference held at the Jackson Square train station, our youth organizers released their findings. Of the youth surveyed, 35% witnessed a police officer using insults with racially charged words, 48% witnessed a police officer pushing or shoving, and 68% witnessed a police officer yelling.
To the youth leaders, it demonstrated the need to work collaboratively with the MBTA to create a mutual culture of respect. Our teens issued three demands aimed at incorporating youth input into the reform process, but their proposals were rebuffed.
HSTF youth know their data reflects reality, and they will continue to work towards improving relations and ensuring the rights of teen riders as the campaign continues. To learn more about the transit campaign, contact Carla Poulos at 617.524.8303 x314 or via email at carla@hydesquare.org.
Growing Leaders in Hyde-Jackson Square
Any good gardener knows that summer seeds yield fall harvests. With that principle in mind, Hyde Square Task Force launched the Summer Leadership Institute, an intensive six-week program that provided hands-on leadership trainings and workshops to 85 young people from our community.
The seeds were planted--in the form of workshops on culture and diversity, discussions on how to resolve conflict and end violence on our streets, field trips to organic gardens to learn the value of healthy eating, and participatory action such as debates on how best to improve public school education.
Come the fall, this crop of youth leaders will take what they have learned and work to build a brighter future for themselves and their community. They will lead a campaign to reform sexual education in Boston Public School, provide access to the arts to hundreds of disadvantaged children in Boston, undertake multiple initiatives to enhance the health and well-being of their friends, families, and neighbors, and so much more. Youth attend the Institute for 20 hours per week, Monday-Thursday; but it is more than just a 'summer school.' Each youth receives a small stipend for their participation, meaning an additional 85 young people will have part-time jobs at a time when the economy continues to struggle to provide these kinds of opportunities.
Two weeks into the program, we already saw these youth grow by tremendous leaps. And we're realizing that their potential for good is far greater than what we could have possibly hoped.
For more information on the Summer Leadership Institute, contact Jodi at 617.524.8303 or jodi@hydesquare.org.
Summer Nights Out Returns!
Just because we've scaled back the scope of Summer Nights Out doesn't mean we plan on having any less fun!
On August 12th, we transformed Mozart Park in Jamaica Plain into a hot spot for teens and families alike.
The theme of the evening was 'Community Festival.' The night started off with a focus on children and families, featuring kid-friendly games, snacks, music, and even a magician! As the night went on, the focus of the event shifted toward teens, with a community concert featuring youth performers and professional artists from across Boston.
Summer Nights Out is a celebration of community and culture--a chance for local residents of all ages and backgrounds to come together in a safe, positive environment. It is also a chance for local businesses and organizations to show their support of youth and peaceful activities in our community.
Summer Nights Out would not have been possible without the tremendous support of Mt. Washington Bank and our other generous sponsors, including Boston Community Capital, Wainwright Bank, Children's Hospital Boston, Leers Weinzapfel Associates Architects, and Boston Private Bank and Trust, the Elsa Guzman Dental Office, Fat Ram Pumpkin Tattoo, City Feed and Supply, Rentals Unlimited, and Congressman Stephen Lynch.
To all of our friends and supporters that have ensured Summer Nights Out will continue this year, we say THANK YOU!
Beats in the Heat...
Sure, you can escape the heat and humidity by sitting in front of your TV and waiting for the school year to start up again, but why not spend your summer days playing Rock Band or learning some moves that will wow all of your friends? Summer Rhythms is here again, offering free dance and music classes to youth ages 10-18. No need to sign up, just stop by and check out our dance studio or the fully equipped HSTF Music Clubhouse. Dance classes are offered Mondays from 5-7PM for youth ages 10-13, and on Tuesday and Wednesday from 5-7PM for youth ages 14-18. Youth of all ages can drop in to the Music Clubhouse from 5-7PM, Monday through Thursday.
For more information about Summer Rhythms, contact Barbara (dance) at 617.524.8303 or barbara@hydesquare.org, or Aimee (music) at 617.524.8303 or aimee@hydesquare.org.
The HSTF Organizational Video is Here!
After the world premiere at our Annual Meeting on June 18th, the HSTF Organizational Video is finally being released for all to see! (We know you've been waiting patiently for it!)
A huge congratulations to Alex Gomez and the Intercultural Productions team for their amazing work creating the film. And a big shout out to all of our youth, whose efforts, struggles, and triumphs make this a video worth watching.
Join us for the HSTF Annual Meeting!
Our Annual Meeting is a chance to recognize the amazing work of our youth as they transform themselves and transform their communities. A light dinner will be served, youth artists will provide entertainment, and we will present awards to three community leaders.
What: HSTF Annual Meeting
When: June 17th, 6-8PM
Where: Cedars Hall, 61 Rockwood Street, Jamaica Plain
For more information, or to RSVP, contact Nate Hinchey at 617.524.8303 x315 or nate@hydesquare.org.
Seedless on Tour!
The Hyde Square Task Force's Youth Literacy Tutors are ready to kick off their book tour, and you're invited to join in on the party!
'Seedless Elementary: The Healthy Adventures of Scooter and Flippy,' is the culmination of a year of work on the part of our teen tutors. They wrote, edited, and designed the book, which addresses proper nutrition and fitness habits in a manner easily 'digested' by younger readers. Now they want children across Boston to hear the book's message. Join us and receive a free copy of Seedless!
What: YLT 'Seedless Elementary' Book Tour Kick-Off
Where: Connolly Library, 433 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain
When: Wednesday, May 19th, 4-5PM
To view a flyer of the event, click here. (en español.)
For more information, contact Ana at 617.524.8303 x324 or ana@hydesquare.org.
Ritmo is Ready...
And raring to go! The annual Ritmo en Acción youth dance showcase is coming up, and you don't want to miss out!
The event, entitled 'DancEd,' will mix dazzling group and solo choreographies with a message concerning the importance of arts and education in our schools. Ritmo's teens have been working for months on a wide range of dances, and the performance promises to be another amazing demonstration of these young people's talent and dedication.
What: 'DancEd' with Ritmo en Acción
When: Sunday, May 16th, 3PM
Where: Alumnae Hall, Simmons College, 300 The Fenway, Boston
For more information, contact Barbara at barbara@hydesquare.org or 617.524.8303 x327.
You can view a flyer for the event here. (en español)
Many thanks to Simmons College for generously hosting this event, as well as the Massachusetts Cultural Council and the National Endowment for the Arts for funding Ritmo en Acción.
Music in Motion!
On April 29th, the Cheverus basement was rocking... and for once, it wasn't because of the construction next door!
Participants from HSTF's Music Clubhouse drop-in program and Community Dance Workshops joined forces to put on a recital for over 100 friends, family, and neighbors. Roughly 40 youth preformed at 'Music in Motion,' singing original songs, showing their skills on acoustic guitars and trap sets, and wowing the audience with Latin and hip-hop dance styles.
This was the second in a series of performances put on by community youth that participate in our free dance and music programs. To get involved yourself, contact Barbara (dance) at barbara@hydesquare.org or Aimee (music) at aimee@hydesquare.org. Or review our calendar below to see when you can stop by!
Also, a big shout-out to Katrina Rojas, the winner of the Hyde Square Task Force stage of Clubhouse Idol! Katrina, all of 10 years old, outsang 17 other competitors to advance to the next stage of the competition, where she will compete against youth from across Boston. The Music and Youth Initiative sponsored event will take place on May 22nd. Good luck, Katrina!
Transformation in Progress
Our youth are constantly on the move--one moment they'll be teaching literacy at a local elementary school and the next they'll be on the steps of the State House protesting budget cuts. It's hard to keep up with all that they do!
Thankfully, two photographers have been able to capture a glimpse of our youth's work over the past year, and State Representative Jeffrey Sanchez will host an exhibit of some of their stunning images.
Mark Saperstein, an HSTF Board Member and the instructor of our Youth Pix program, contributed photos to the exhibit. Christina Wegs, a Lewis Hine Documentary Fellow, will also share some photographs from her year-long residency at HSTF that was supported by The Philanthropic Initiative and the Center for Documentary Studies at Duke University.
What: Transformation in Progress Photo Exhibit Opening
When: Tuesday, May 11th, 4-6PM
Where: State Representative Jeffrey Sanchez's Office, Massachusetts State House Room 130
The exhibit will continue to be open to the public after this date. A flyer with additional details regarding the opening is available here.
For more information, contact Rebekah at rebekah@hydesquare.org or 617.524.8303 x320.
Dominican Independence Day
It was February 27th when Juan Pablo Duarte and the Trinitarians declared Dominican independence. Now, 165 years (and 364 days) later, the Hyde Square Task Force is kicking off this year's celebration!
Start the party early as members of HSTF's Dominican Youth Project host an independence event with food, music, games, dance, and the opportunity to learn about the rich culture and history of the Dominican Republic.
What: Dominican Independence Celebration
When: Friday, February 26th (the day before Dominican Independence Day) from 4-8PM
Where: English High School, 144 McBride Street,
Jamaica Plain
For more information, contact Carla at 617.524.8303 or carla@hydesquare.org.
To view the event flyer, click here. (en español.)
El Planeta Honors Claudio Martinez
Congratulations to our Executive Director, Claudio Martinez, for recently being named as one of the 100 Most Influential People for Latinos in Massachusetts as part of the Lo Mejor de El Planeta (The Best of El Planeta) awards!
The honor was in recognition of Claudio's amazing leadership of the Hyde Square Task Force, as well as his service on the Boston School Committee, and his efforts to improve English language learning among immigrant populations in Boston Public Schools.
All of the recipients of this award are helping to create a stronger Massachusetts and we applaud their efforts. To see a list of the other winners, click here.
Fight for Youth Jobs!
On Thursday, February 18th, the steps of the State House will belong to Boston's youth. And it will be hard to ignore their call.
The rally to prevent cuts in teen jobs programming is led in part by the Dorchester Bay Youth Force, the Hyde Square Task Force, and other youth-serving organizations that are a part of the Boston Youth Service Network.
As budget shortfalls continue to plague the state budget, there are many that believe the best way to cut costs is to take character and skill-building jobs away from young people and toss them out on the street.
One such line-item on the chopping block is the YouthWorks Teen Jobs program which supports the Boston Youth Fund and a host of other valuable job programs. It has already seen its funding cut by $4 million in recent years, and it simply cannot absorb additional cuts without devastating the ability of non-profits such as HSTF to provide life, academic, and career skills to disadvantaged youth in our community.
Join us on Thursday, February 18th, from 2-5PM at the State House to stand up for youth jobs!
For more information, see the flyer below, or contact Chrismaldi at 617.524.8303 or chrismaldi@hydesquare.org.
We Three Kings...
Err, we two kings, and one queen, that is, visited the John F. Kennedy Elementary School on January 6th as part of the annual El Dia de los Reyes (Three Kings Day) celebration. These young royals were on a mission to spread holiday cheer and a message of the importance of literacy.
HSTF's Youth Literacy Tutors organized the event, which added a new twist this year. All the elementary school students received a copy of the 'Seedless Elementary,' the children's book written by the teen tutors to promote good nutrition and proper fitness habits. The book has been a year-long project of the YLTs who hope to take the book on tour to local libraries, schools, and community organizations to teach young people across Boston the importance of responsible decision-making.
But just in case some of the children felt a little disappointed that they only received a book, Hyde Square Task Force youth also distributed additional presents to the after-school program participants, along with snacks (healthy, of course) to help make the Epiphany a joyous one for all.
For more information about 3 Kings Day or the Youth Literacy Tutors, contact Ana at 617.524.8303 or ana@hydesquare.org.
From the Executive Director...
Dear Friends,
Last month, the Massachusetts State Senate passed the Education Reform Act of 2009 by a margin of 28-11. This legislation will help qualify Massachusetts to potentially receive federal 'Race to the Top' funds.
'Race to the Top' is a competitive grant program that is funded through the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The goal of the program is to encourage and empower states to undertake significant educational reform and better serve students.
If Massachusetts is selected, we could be awarded more than $100 million to invest in teachers, improve assessment and data tools, and turn around under-performing schools. As a member of the Massachusetts 'Race to the Top' coalition, I applaud the work of the State Senate in passing this bill.
But our work is not yet completed. The Massachusetts House is still considering the bill, and our state's application for this funding is only as strong as we the people make it.
I strongly encourage you to learn more about 'Race to the Top.' Spread the word to your friends and family about the proposed reforms, contact your State Representative and ask him/her where they stand on the bill AND why, follow the progress of this issue and become a part of the discussion.
We are on the verge of potentially the most drastic education reform the state has seen in 15 years. Your voice deserves to be heard.
Thank you,
Claudio Martinez
You Better Think!
On Veteran's Day, 75 youth leaders participated in the first round of the HSTF Learning Institute, a series of workshops and trainings designed to equip young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to bring about positive social change.
The half-day training served as a chance for the newest members of our youth leadership teams to meet their peers and learn to work together with them towards a common goal--as seen above.
In addition to team-building activities, the workshop focused on critical thinking skills. Young people in our society are confronted with hundreds of different viewpoints, opinions, and facts from a wide variety of sources--some credible, some not. The manner in which youth process this knowledge will play a large part in shaping who they become and what they hope to achieve in life. The critical thinking workshop helps provide our teens with the tools to interpret evidence, understand context, and make well-informed decisions.
Future workshops will deal with issues such as race, culture, gender, oppression, violence, globalization, and more.
For more information about the HSTF Learning Institute, contact Ken Tangvik at ken@hydesquare.org.
Breaking the Ice: HSTF Winter Showcase
On Thursday, December 10th, youth from the HSTF Music Clubhouse program and our Community Dance Workshops warmed up Hyde Square as they showed off some of the songs and dance moves they had learned over the past semester. Over 100 neighbors, friends, and family members came in from the cold and joined us for 'Breaking the Ice: A Winter Showcase!'
Both of these drop-in programs offer free music and dance instruction to young people ages 10-18 in our community. The Winter Showcase was a celebration of a semester of hard work as the programs prepare to take a break for the holiday season. But don't worry, you can still get in on the action when the programs start back up again next year!
For more information about the Winter Showcase or the drop-in programs, contact Aimee (music) at aimee@hydesquare.org or Barbara (dance) at barbara@hydesquare.org.
Connection Communities Policy Symposium
On October 28th, over 250 education and youth development professionals joined city and state leaders to develop a unified voice on after-school and expanded learning policy. Youth and staff from the Hyde Square Task Force participated in the symposium. To view a video produced by Boston After School and Beyond that highlights Boston's expanded approach to learning, click here.
Boston Connects' Dream Gala
Join Boston Connects as they celebrate ten years of working to revitalize communities in Boston. The Boston Connects' free 'Dream Gala' will celebrate the journey of the last decade on January 13th, 2010 from 6-10PM at UMass Boston. For more information, visit www.dreamboston.org.
HSTF is Best in JP!
Jamaica Plain has spoken... and the Hyde Square Task Force is the best around!
Over 4,000 votes were cast in the Jamaica Plain Gazette's 10th Annual 'Best of JP' Awards. The Hyde Square Task Force emerged as the clear winner for the 'Best Non-Profit Service Agency' in Jamaica Plain! Thank you to all those who voted and to all of our neighbors who helped make this organization what it is by sacrificing hours to volunteer, donating to our programs, and showing your support for our youth at community events throughout the year.
Our young artists were also honored with the 'Best Mural in JP' award for their outstanding artwork in Mozart Park.
With your continued support, we're a shoe-in for 2010!
To see the results and the nominees, you can visit www.jamaicaplaingazette.com.
A Candidate's Forum: By Youth, For Youth
On Wednesday, October 8th, the mayoral and at-large city council candidates still standing after the primary election gathered at English High School in Jamaica Plain to make their case to an unlikely constituency--those not even old enough to vote.
The youth-organized and youth-centered candidate's forum provided candidates with the chance to field questions from young people and discuss their positions on youth issues, such as school funding, youth jobs, and community violence.
"Youth make up a significant part of society, and we deserve to be heard," said Waldi Nova, a youth organizer at the Hyde Square Task Force. "We are affected by changes in our community so we should be as much a part of those decisions as anyone else."
More than 150 community residents, many of whom were youth, attended the forum, as did At-Large City Council candidates Felix Arroyo, Tomas Gonzalez, Tito Jackson and incumbent Steve Murphy. The forum was a collaboration of the Hyde Square Task Force, Sociedad Latina, MassVote, and the Dorchester Bay Youth Force.
To read more about the forum, check out the articles in the JP Gazette and the Bay State Banner.
For more information about our youth's efforts around the upcoming election, contact Ashley Cotton at 617.524.8303 x305 or ashley@hydesquare.org.
Drop-In Programs Now Open
Want to trade in that air-guitar for the real thing? Interested in learning some new steps you can take on to the dance floor? Then stop by the Hyde Square Task Force for our FREE dance and music drop-in programs!
Open Dance Workshops
Our award-winning Ritmo en Accion dancers are on hand to teach you the latest hip-hop and Latin dance moves.
When: Ages 10-13, Mondays from 5:30 to 6:30
Ages 14-18, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-7:30
Where: Cheverus Building, 365 Centre Street
For more info, contact Barbara at 617.524.8303 x327 or barbara@hydesquare.org.
Music Clubhouse Open Hours
Schedule a lesson, or just stop by to jam in our fully-equipped Music Clubhouse!
When: Monday-Friday, 3-8PM
Who: All youth ages 10-18
Where: Cheverus Building, 365 Centre Street
For more information, contact Aimee at 617.524.8303 x312 or aimee@hydesquare.org.
Registration is open year-round, stop by today!
Youth Leadership Positions Through Boston Youth Fund
The Hyde Square Task Force is currently hiring for youth leadership positions funded by the Boston Youth Fund After-School Employment Program. Join one of HSTF's five youth teams focused on arts, academic, and leadership programming.
For more information, contact us at 617.524.8303 or visit the Cheverus Youth Center at 365 Centre Street.
HSTF: Hyde Square’s Arts Hub!
For artists, all roads lead to Hyde Square…
Join us on September 26th-27th, as the Hyde Square Task Force hosts the 16th Annual Jamaica Plain Open Studios. For one weekend, our Cheverus program facility will be transformed into a community gallery, featuring the work of 11 local artists and exhibitions from some of our very own youth artists. Our doors will be open from 11-6PM on Saturday and Sunday. Stop by to see our youth show off their artistic skills in a variety of media: photography, filmmaking, visual arts, music, and dance.
What: HSTF Hosts Jamaica Plain Open Studios
When: Saturday and Sunday, September 26th--27th,from 11-6PM
Where: HSTF Cheverus Building, 365 Centre Street
For more information, contact Brenda at 617.524.8303 x323 or brenda@hydesquare.org. You can also visit the JP Open Studios website at www.jpopenstudios.com.
Save the Date for HSTF's Open House
On Thursday, September 24th, the Hyde Square Task Force will throw open its doors to the community! We hope that our neighbors, families, parents, friends, and any and all who are interested will join us for an evening of food, fun, and a chance to show off our Cheverus program building.
What: HSTF Open House
When: Saturday, September 24th, 6-8PM
Where: Cheverus Building, 365 Centre Street
(Behind the Blessed Sacrament Church)
For more information, contact us at 617.524.8303.
Get Ready for the JP World's Fair!
The Hyde Square Task Force is proud to host the upcoming 20th Annual Jamaica Plain World's Fair! The event will feature music from a variety of performers, a dance show from our very own Ritmo en Accion troupe, food, rides, and activities for the whole family.
The World's Fair has been a mainstay of the community for decades--it's a chance for all of JP to come together and celebrate community pride, our thriving arts scene, and the rich diversity of our neighborhoods. We hope you can join us!
What: JP World's Fair
Where: Centre Street, between Forbes and Walden Streets (Hyde-Jackson Square)
When: Saturday, September 12th, 12-6PM
To view a flyer of the event, click here.
For more information, visit www.jpworldsfair.org. Or contact Chrismaldi at 617.524.8303 or chrismaldi@hydesquare.org.
Summer Nights Out a Success!
The last of the chairs have been stacked. The music has died down. And, at least for the moment, the face paint and balloons have been packed away. They are signs of two things: that cool autumn weather is coming (eventually), and that another incredibly successful Summer Nights Out event series has come to a close.
Over 1300 people joined the Hyde Square Task Force at five community gatherings this summer. The events offered teens, families, residents, friends, and even a few eager political candidates the chance to come together and celebrate the summer in a safe and positive environment.
Summer Nights Out was launched three years ago to stem the rising tide of summer youth violence. It provides both a safe, neutral space for young people to have fun and an opportunity for those same young people to show that they are working to build a more peaceful Boston.
Youth from the Hyde Square Task Force were integral in organizing Summer Nights Out. They worked long hours planning every event detail. They staffed voter registration tables, educating the community about the importance of building political power through participation. They took to the stage--as emcees, musicians, dancers, and even fashion models! One group of youth, the Youth Literacy Tutors, spent the last year creating a children's book, entitled 'Seedless Elementary: Scooter and Flippy's Healthy Adventures.' The book underscores the importance of proper nutrition and fitness habits in a community increasingly plagued by poor health. Dozens of children heard this valuable lesson at one of the Summer Night events where the book was unveiled.
Through their tireless efforts, our youth are building a stronger community. But they could not have done it alone. We would like to again thank all of the Summer Nights Out supporters who helped us put together these events; Alternatives for Community and Environment, Congressmen Stephen Lynch and Michael Capuano, Gordon Gottlieb, Barry Dym, and the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development Corporation.
A special thanks to our key supporters: the Leers Weinzapfel Architect Associates, the Boston Private Bank and Trust Company, Boston Community Capital, Mt. Washington Bank, and the Berklee College of Music.
A Fine 'Arts in the Summer'
HSTF's six-week 'Arts in the Summer' program also wrapped up on August 14th. Twenty-six elementary aged students participated in the all-day program, splitting the day between dancing in our studio, finding inspiration in arts and crafts, working with our summer staff to improve their reading and writing skills, and burning off some spare energy by playing hoops--both basketball and hula!
The kids also journeyed out in Boston throughout the summer, visiting the Museum of Science, the Children's Museum, the Boston Harbor Islands, the Boston Nature Center/Forest Hills Cemetery, the Puppet Showplace Theater, and the New England Aquarium. Our thanks to all of these organizations for hosting our participants!
For more information about the program, or to line up for the fun next year, contact Ana Almeida at 617.524.8303 or ana@hydesquare.org.
Youth Tutors Finish Children's Nutrition Book
Kids Fun Night, a Summer Nights Out event, was be held on Thursday, July 23rd, from 6-8PM at Stony Brook Park in Jamaica Plain. At the event, our Youth Literacy Tutors, a group of teens who help children in our community learn to read, unveiled the fruit of a year's labor. Recognizing that young kids in our community are laying the groundwork for unhealthy diets that lead to disproportionate levels of diabetes and obesity, our teen tutors set out to write a children's book that promotes proper nutrition in a fun way.
The result is "Seedless Elementary: Scooter and Flippy's Healthy Adventures." Envisioned, written and illustrated by HSTF youth, the book is part of a larger effort to build a healthier community.
Copies of the book were made available at the event on Thursday, and everyone enjoyed some great music, healthy snacks, and a host of fun activities!
For more information or for your own copy of the book, contact Ana at 617.524.8303 or ana@hydesquare.org.
Claudio Martinez Receives Humanitarian Award
On June 24th, Claudio Martinez of the Hyde Square Task Force, received the Humanitarian Award from the Boston Center for Community and Justice (BCCJ.)
"Claudio is a great example of an activist who emerged from successful grassroots work in the neighborhoods to take on a larger city-wide leadership role," said Paul Grogan, Executive Director of the Boston Foundation in his introduction of Martinez at the award ceremony. "He brings a fresh perspective to the table and his willingness to address controversial issues with honesty and openness is needed in Boston."
Outside of his service to the Hyde Square Task Force as Executive Director, Martinez has also worked to improve social services and increase equity in Boston through his efforts as a member of the Board of Directors of the Boston Foundation, the Nellie Mae Education Foundation, and Boston After School and Beyond. Additionally, because of his decades-long commitment to education, Martinez was appointed by Mayor Menino to the Boston School Committee in 2008.
Governor Deval Patrick and First Lady Diane Patrick were also honored-receiving the Lifetime Achievement in Social Justice Award from the BCCJ. The Boston Center for Community and Justice works to develop a diverse community of socially responsible leaders, both individuals and organizations, which advances social justice throughout Greater Boston.
For more information on the award, contact us at 617.524.8303 or info@hydesquare.org.
Mark your calendars: HSTF Annual Meeting!
Don't miss out on this year's Hyde Square Task Force Annual Meeting. It's not only an opportunity for our youth to show off all of the phenomenal work they have done this year, it's a chance for the community to come together, enjoy some delicious food and live entertainment, and have a great time!
What: HSTF Annual Meeting
When: June 18th, 6-8PM
Where: Blessed Sacrament Church, 365 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
For more information, contact Paul Trunnell at 617.524.8303 x321 or via email at paul@hydesquare.org.
May is Arts Month at HSTF!
The last track has been polished, the final step perfected, and the young artists of the Hyde Square Task Force are ready to rock the city of Boston. Please join us in celebrating the hard work and amazing creations of these youth!
HSTF's WaveLink Productions Album Release Party
Friday, May 15th, 7-9 PM
Cafe 939
939 Boylston Street, Boston
WaveLink Productions, comprised of youth from HSTF's Music Clubhouse, is proud to release their first, self-produced album entitled 'Crucible.' The youth will debut hip-hop and spoken word tracks, perform live, and make album copies available for sale. The show is free, but tickets are required.
For tickets and information, contact David Szebeda at 617.524.8303 x312 or david@hydesquare.org.
Ritmo en Acción Showcase
Sunday, May 31st, 4-6 PM
Tower Auditorium
Mass College of Art and Design
621 Huntington Avenue, Boston
You're not going to want to miss this! The free showcase features the Afro-Latin and Contemporary dance stylings of the Ritmo en Acción dance troupe, the HYM professional dance company, video work by Mass Art students, and a photography exhibit by Christina Wegs, a Lewis Hine fellow.
For more information, contact Barbara Civill at 617.524.8303 x327 or barbara@hydesquare.org.
Peace in Our Time...
When youth violence strikes our community, it is sometimes hard to see any silver lining at all.
But the truth is that 1% of youth in our city account for more than 50% of the violence in Boston. The vast majority of young people, including dozens at the Hyde Square Task Force, are ready to stand up for peace.
On April 23rd, youth leaders organized a press conference to launch their summer peace initiatives. Youth screened their self-produced anti-violence documentary entitled 'Looking for Peace: One Block at a Time.' It was the first stop on the upcoming HSTF Peace Tour, an effort by the film's creators, the Health Careers Ambassadors, to screen the film across Massachusetts and lead discussions on how to stop the epidemic of youth violence.
To schedule a stop on the HSTF Peace Tour, contact Guy Armand at 617.524.8303 x302 or guy@hydesquare.org.
(The making of the Health Careers Ambassadors' documentary, 'Looking for Peace.' Photo by Alex Gomez, 2008.)
'Looking for Peace' Now on Comcast ON DEMAND!
If you are a Comcast subscriber, visit the ON DEMAND menu, select Get Local, then Comcast Cares to watch the full documentary!
Not a subscriber? Click here to watch the film's trailer.
The press conference was also an opportunity to announce the continuation of last year's Paint for Peace campaign. Dozens of 'peace doves' were painted on sidewalks throughout Boston to raise awareness about the crisis of youth violence. This year, existing doves will be repainted and new doves will be placed in locations where peace needs to be symbolized and realized. Help us end youth violence by painting for peace!
What: Paint for Peace
Where: HSTF Cheverus Building, 365 Centre Street
When: Thursday, May 21st, 3PM
For more information, contact Ashley Cotton at 617.524.8303 x305 or ashley@hydesquare.org.
Mozart Gets a Makeover
When you next visit Mozart Park, you may find yourself transported. Following the city's renovations, the mural needed to be repainted. HSTF's Community Development Artists took this opportunity to share their perspective of their community and to celebrate their own, unique cultures. The panaroma features an homage to the late giants of hip-hop, a tip of the hat to local legend Manuel 'Madego' DeBrand, a 'just for kids' section, and images capturing the passion of our youth for sports, theater, and nature. Under the guidance of professional muralist Roberto Chao, the CDAs are putting the final touches on their artwork.
These young artists are also nearing completion on a series of murals at Roxbury Crossing, a follow-up to the successful mural project they created at Jackson Square.
For more information, contact Ashley at 617.524.8303 x305 or via email at ashley@hydesquare.org.
Local Youth Take on Street Violence
At the end of a week marred by more killings in Jamaica Plain, over 50 youth gathered on the steps of the Curley K-8 School to turn back the rising tide of violence with nothing but paint brushes, a message of hope and the strength of numbers. After a brief press conference, and under the guidance of Sidewalk Sam, youth from HSTF's Community Development Artists, Spontaneous Celebration's Beantown Society and other members of the Hyde/Jackson Square community painted an enormous dove on the steps of the Curley School in an effort to establish a culture of non-violence on the streets of Boston.
HSTF Youth Dance onto National Stage
If receiving an arts award in the White House from First Lady Laura Bush wasn’t enough to garner some national attention for the Hyde Square Task Force’s Ritmo en Accion dance troupe, then the recent coverage on The NBC Nightly News should get the country talking.
Ritmo en Accion was featured on a special ‘Making a Difference’ segment for the evening news. Not only do these youth dancers make a difference in the lives of elementary and middle school students by acting as role models and passing along lessons about dance, but the lives of the dancers themselves are transformed by being a part of the Ritmo program—100% of alumni have graduated from high school and been accepted into college.
Click here to watch Ritmo on NBC.
Youth Bring Civics Campaign to City Hall
On Thursday, October 18th Hyde Square Task Force youth testified at Boston City Council's Hearing on Civics in Boston Public Schools. This hearing, initiated by HSTF Youth Community Organizers with the help of City Councilor Chuck Turner, called for the addition of a mandatory civics requirement for all Boston Public School students in the 11th and 12th grades. Over 200 youth and adults attended the hearing to show their support for this civics curriculum. Fifteen local organizations, including the Boston Parent Organizing Network and the Civic Education Project were represented at the hearing; many of these representatives also testified on behalf of the campaign for civics.
For more information on this campaign, please contact Chrismaldi at (617) 524-8303 x 325 or chrismaldi@hydesquare.org
Latest Annual Report Now Available
Read about our growth over the past year, as we continue finding new ways to expand youth leadership opportunities, promote civic engagement, build positive relationships, enrich academics, and celebrate culture and community. To get a copy of our new report, you can pick one up at our office (375 Centre St.) or contact Paul at (617) 524-8303 x 321 or paul@hydesquare.org
Click here to download our most recent Annual Report in Adobe PDF format (file size: 3.8 MB)
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Banner photo by Carol Palmer c 2002 www.BrilliantPictures.com