We need to hear your voices now. ThreeSixty Journalism exists because we believe in the power of youth voices, and we will continue to exist because the need to amplify underrepresented voices remains critical. What has changed in the past few months is more people are ready and willing to listen.
Perhaps that’s how you came across our Fall 2020 Magazine. Regardless, thank you, reader, for opening these pages. We hope you read it, share it and live it.
When we chose the theme of creators we did not know a global pandemic would swiftly change everything. We did not foresee the murder of George Floyd at the hands of police officers. We could not imagine protests in our backyard propelling such a wide-reaching and long overdue social justice and racial equity overhaul. Thinking of creators in this context allowed us to highlight those who are innovating, reacting and adapting. They are using their voices to give back to the community, and it is a privilege to share their stories with you. All these creators carry threads of hope for a better tomorrow,
as do our students.
We are also proud to showcase more student voices in this issue. As ThreeSixty adapted and responded during the last few months, we focused on providing a space for young people to react and share stories they were not hearing elsewhere. You will find in these pages brave and bold personal stories from our #360YouthVoiceChallenge and College Essay Boot Camps, held in partnerships with Girls Inc. Eureka! and Cristo Rey Jesuit High School.
You will learn about what racism as a public health crisis means from advanced reporters who attended Digital Media Arts Camp, supported by our partners at the Center for Prevention at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota and Padilla. The powerful digital collection of stories highlights the work of advocates, and I hope you click through to see those stories in action.
ThreeSixty will offer more opportunities to share your stories in the fall, including a new
#360YouthVoiceChallenge and programming on editorial writing during a national election.
Lastly, I want to thank the incredible volunteers, supporters and partners who made it possible for ThreeSixty to continue telling stories. ThreeSixty shifted to virtual programming quickly this spring. It was something completely new, but it forced staff to think creatively. It also brought us students and volunteers we may not have met otherwise. Everyone shared constructive positivity in our virtual spaces
and left hopeful about the next generation of storytellers, critical thinkers and leaders.
Though many of us are in isolation working and learning from home, ThreeSixty does not feel alone in the work we do. Our strong community is our best asset, and this time is a big reminder of it. This magazine is truly a labor of love, and you will be able to see why as you continue to engage with our stories.
Enjoy reading the magazine and be sure to share with others!
Teachers and librarians: Click here to print a promotional flyer with a QR Code.
