REACH youth from El Dorado Hills and Galt perform at MLK, Jr. Day event

by Raeann Jones
Project Coordinator, Vision Coalition of El Dorado Hills

On Jan. 21 at the Placerville Town Hall, residents of El Dorado County kicked off the Martin Luther King, Jr. Season for Nonviolence. Two REACH youth ― Spencer Reed, a youth member of the Vision Coalition of El Dorado Hills, and John Johnson, a youth member of the Galt Area Youth Coalition ― performed their slam poetry titled “Diversity” and “Unplugged,” addressing issues of racism and prejudice. The poetry was inspired by their experiences at last summer’s REACH Youth Development Camp at Grizzly Creek Ranch.

Their poised and flawless presentations met with great applause, and later they were rushed by many interested adults and youth wanting to know more about them and their coalitions. Spencer and John enjoyed the attention, and patiently answered questions and promoted our youth development approach to bridge gaps between races, colors, creeds and ages.

Penny Lehrman, health promotions manager for Marshall Medical commented, “It is so refreshing to have the youth voice represented here tonight. It is rare that youth take part in these events. As a local activist, I am glad to know who to contact when we need a youth perspective, which is always!” Her sentiments were echoed throughout the evening.

Download words to “Unplugged” and “Diversity” (PDF) below.