Introduction to Futures Ignite
Futures Ignite is an organization that partners with high schools to provide students with after-school, summer, leadership, and career experiences. Their mission is to support every student in exploring, leading, launching, and persisting in bold college and career futures. Each year, they support more than 1,500 students in northern Manhattan and the Bronx.
The Story of Juan
Juan, a senior at the Washington Heights Expeditionary Learning School, is a shining example of the impact of Futures Ignite’s programs. He is the son of Dominican immigrants and has been involved with Futures Ignite since 10th grade. Juan has participated in various programs, including the Clean Air Green Corridor Lab and the Urban Ecology Summer Institute. He has also gone on college trips and is now applying to college, with dreams of studying computer science and finance.
Juan’s Persistence and Leadership
Juan’s persistence and leadership skills are evident in the way he approaches challenges. During the Urban Ecology Summer Symposium, when his team was missing a crucial water sample, Juan took initiative and collected the sample from the Harlem River, ensuring his team’s success. His determination and focus are inspiring, and he is a testament to the potential of young people when given the right support and opportunities.
The Importance of Investing in Immigrant Youth
Half of all New York City youth have at least one immigrant parent, and in neighborhoods like Washington Heights and Kingsbridge, the number is even higher. These communities face unique challenges, including the threat of detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It is essential to invest in the futures of immigrant youth, providing them with the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
The Need for Sanctuary Schools
New York City has taken steps to protect immigrant students, including implementing sanctuary school policies that prevent ICE from entering schools without a warrant. However, more needs to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of these students. This includes providing belonging and support for Black and brown students, freedom from gun violence, investment in restorative justice, and schools that affirm culture, language, and identity.
The Future Ready NYC Initiative
The Department of Education’s Future Ready NYC initiative is a step in the right direction, expanding career pathways and strengthening college connections. However, it is essential to grow this initiative into a more significant investment that reaches all students, not just some. By investing in the futures of immigrant youth, we can create a more just and equitable society.
The Power of Community and Solidarity
Schools, families, and community organizations are already showing what it means to invest in the futures of immigrant youth. Teachers and leaders are standing in solidarity with families, advocating for their rights and providing support beyond the classroom. This solidarity is powerful, and we need more of it.
Conclusion
Investing in the futures of immigrant youth is crucial for creating a more just and equitable society. By providing support and opportunities, we can help young people like Juan thrive and become leaders in their communities. It is essential to expand initiatives like Future Ready NYC and Futures Ignite, providing free, dynamic after-school and summer programs, meaningful leadership opportunities, internships, and job training, and individualized college and postsecondary counseling. When immigrant youth thrive, all of New York City thrives, and so does its future.
FAQs
Q: What is Futures Ignite, and what is its mission?
A: Futures Ignite is an organization that partners with high schools to provide students with after-school, summer, leadership, and career experiences. Its mission is to support every student in exploring, leading, launching, and persisting in bold college and career futures.
Q: What is the story of Juan, and how has he been involved with Futures Ignite?
A: Juan is a senior at the Washington Heights Expeditionary Learning School and has been involved with Futures Ignite since 10th grade. He has participated in various programs, including the Clean Air Green Corridor Lab and the Urban Ecology Summer Institute, and is now applying to college.
Q: Why is it essential to invest in the futures of immigrant youth?
A: Investing in the futures of immigrant youth is crucial for creating a more just and equitable society. By providing support and opportunities, we can help young people thrive and become leaders in their communities.
Q: What is the Future Ready NYC initiative, and how can it be improved?
A: The Future Ready NYC initiative is a program that expands career pathways and strengthens college connections. To improve it, it is essential to grow the initiative into a more significant investment that reaches all students, not just some, and provides more comprehensive support and opportunities.
Q: How can community and solidarity help support immigrant youth?
A: Community and solidarity are essential in supporting immigrant youth. Schools, families, and community organizations can work together to provide advocacy, support, and opportunities, helping young people thrive and become leaders in their communities.
