I envision a Washtenaw County that is dedicated to creating an environment where all people regardless of socio-economic status, race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation can live happy and authentic lives. For this vision to become a reality the county must work to provide equal opportunities in employment, education, and housing. This requires governmental, and higher education institutional accountability; too often these bodies fail to uphold the promises made to the community members they hope to serve. It is my vision that these bodies will be led in a critical self-reflection of their responsibilities to the community through an influx of diverse youth-empowerment and leadership. When institutions fail to change it is the responsibilities of those full of youthful-optimism and determination to correct these failures. A sense of renewed accountability through youth-empowerment and leadership will lead to a more empathetic and collaborative Washtenaw County. It is through these efforts that Washtenaw County will find itself in the forefront of creating racial equity not only in Washtenaw County but across the state of Michigan and the country.

Organization: University of Michigan Prevention Research Center