From June 27-30, the California Association of Youth Courts (CAYC) hosted its 19th Annual California Youth Court Summit at the University of California, Merced. This event is a cornerstone for supporting youth across the state, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to transition into adulthood and play influential roles in shaping California’s juvenile justice system. The summit emphasizes the power of alternative methods and restorative justice, aiming to inspire young leaders to advocate for change, in different capacities,within their communities.
One of the key organizations involved in this impactful event is PESA. They have a longstanding commitment to uplifting, empowering, and educating youth, and its involvement in the CAYC's youth summits is a testament to this dedication. PESA's Executive Director, Seymour Amster, who also serves as the President of Trustees for CAYC, spearheads this engagement, ensuring that the values of support and education are woven into the fabric of the summit.
This year, 40 students from PESA attended the summit, accompanied by adult chaperones, making the total PESA delegation over 45 strong. In total there were over 200 people in attendance at the summit. The weekend was packed with enriching activities, workshops, and keynote speakers designed to foster a deeper understanding of the juvenile justice system and the importance of civic engagement.
The summit was not just an educational event but also a platform for students to express themselves and connect with peers from different counties such as Los Angeles, Alachula, San Mateo, Humboldt, Orange, San Bernardino, Shasta, Riverside, Fresno, and Bakersfield county. The workshops covered a wide range of topics, spanning from Teenage Substance Abuse: Adverse Effects and Service Leadership as The Path to Success to Unleashing the Power of Storytelling in Advocacy and Building Bonds Between Law Enforcement, Youth, and the Juvenile Justice System.
Here are some reflections from students who attended the summit, highlighting their experiences and key takeaways:
Jasmin, a first-time attendee from Los Angeles Leadership Academy (LALA), found the summit to be both fun and educational. “It led me to connect and learn about other counties in California that also do teen court. Each workshop was very informative,” she shared.
Adam, another student from LALA highlighted the collaborative nature of the event. "I enjoyed seeing adults and youth come together to discuss real-life issues like drugs and alcohol. I learned how struggles at home can significantly impact a child's mind and development," he noted.
Odeth, a student from the Antelope Valley School District, praised the hands-on activities and inspirational speakers. "Listening to Judge Marquez was a highlight. Her words encouraged us to stay ready and never step back," she recalled.
Taino, also from the Antelope Valley, appreciated the alignment of the workshops with his interests. "I loved learning about our government and the justice system. Co-hosting a workshop was a memorable experience," he said.
Some other sentiments expressed by students during the weekend ranged from, “I’ve gotten to network and meet professionals from my future career,” “I got to learn about what restorative justice really means,” “CAYC taught me about different youth court models around California,” and “It was great getting to meet other students who I wouldn’t have met otherwise.”
The collaboration between PESA and CAYC exemplifies a shared commitment to fostering positive change and ensuring that the voices of youth are heard and valued.
If you’d like to support PESA’s many social and educational initiatives, please contact us.
|