A new cohort at Kennedy High School seeks to bring together student groups to further foster cooperation, collaboration, and inclusivity within the school community.

Representatives from the Muslim Student Association, Black Student Union, Jewish Student Union, Asian Pacific Student Association and Latino Student Union gathered for the group’s first meeting in December. Students not only shared food and desserts, but also participated in belonging circles and service activities. The leaders from each cultural group shared reflections on their holiday traditions and the values these celebrations have taught them.

"We are very open with each other and excited to learn about each other’s cultures and traditions,” said Madi Lange, co-president of the school’s JSU chapter.  

This Unity Council is being built on a culture of openness and acceptance. 

“Watching our student leaders come together to celebrate their diverse traditions and cultures fills me with hope and pride,” said the collective group’s faculty advisor Brad Seidman. “At a time when division often makes the news, these terrific young people are showing us a better way forward. These students understand that true leadership means building bridges while celebrating what makes each of us unique.” 

Students have already been collaborating with other high schools in the CHSD as well. 

Members of the Black Student Union have worked with Sanford H. Calhoun’s Racial Equity Club, while members of the Muslim Student Association previous collaborated with Wellington C. Mepham High School’s Muslim Student Association on an EID event.  

At Kennedy, these five groups plan on meeting monthly, as well as attending each other’s meetings to help solidify the foundation for the Unity Council. They are also working on fundraising, collection drives, and other community service efforts in their individual groups.  

“A multi-cultural night is currently being planned at the school, hopefully in March,” explained Haniyyah Myricks, president of the Black Student Union.