At the Power Shift 2009 conference earlier this month, hundreds of D.C. youth met for an hour to discuss District-wide priorities and working together. From ending the burning of coal to modernizing the city’s combined sewer system, there was plenty to talk about.
Among the issues raised was the fact that young people in D.C. largely come from one of two backgrounds: those who vote here (or will vote here upon turning 18) – and those who vote elsewhere (the university student population). It was suggested by some that transient students are less invested in the challenges faced by the District than those who vote here, that only permanent residents understand the real problems we face.
I couldn’t disagree more. Especially in this city so troubled by racism, environmental injustices, economic disparity, etc., we simply cannot afford to further divide and marginalize.
The D.C. Youth Environmental Alliance was established nearly two years ago to bring young people in Washington, D.C. together. It hasn’t been easy. Building a community of youth that derives strength from and is representative of the city’s diversity has been an uphill battle – but one that we have no intention of conceding.
The assumption that only long-term residents of DC have a stake in what happens here only furthers the ingrained division that has made DCYEA’s vision of unity and community difficult to reach. In the end, we all breathe the same air – and want the same coal plants shut down. We drink the same water – and want the same lead service pipes removed from all communities. We share a common dream of opportunity and healthy, equitable neighborhoods.
Instead of marginalizing either camp, the locals or the transients, lets honor their different backgrounds as strengths. College students and other young transplants care deeply about achieving a sustainable city; just look to the fantastic work they’re doing to make their universities role model institutions. And of course long-term resident youth care just as much; this is where they grew up. DCYEA’s mission is to bring these two groups together, drawing on the strengths of both for the benefit of all.
Jeff Gustafson is the director of the D.C. Youth Environmental Alliance.
