The Danvers Human Rights and Inclusion Committee meeting on January 13, 2025, highlighted the recent trip taken by the NextGen leaders to Washington, D.C. The group, consisting of four students from Danvers High School, embarked on this educational journey to explore significant historical sites, including the Holocaust Museum and the African American Museum.
During the trip, which began early Saturday morning and concluded around 12:30 AM Sunday, the students documented their experiences through notes and photographs. This documentation is intended to inform their upcoming game design process, which aims to incorporate elements of social justice and leadership development into their projects.
Isaiah, a member of NextGen, explained that the club focuses on nurturing future leaders through game design, emphasizing social justice themes. The group meets weekly to collaborate on projects and foster a sense of community among its members.
Committee members expressed their support for the NextGen initiative, with one member noting a positive conversation with Janelle Ridley, the club's advisor. Ridley acknowledged the committee's contributions and the support from local donors, which helped fund the trip.
The meeting concluded with discussions about enhancing the club's visibility, including plans to establish a social media presence to share updates and engage with the community. The committee's ongoing support for youth initiatives like NextGen underscores its commitment to fostering leadership and inclusivity in Danvers.