Overview
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) hosted the 2024 Galaxy Summit, an event funded by over $47,000 in federal funds, to celebrate and educate students about gender, sexuality, and activism. The event aimed to provide a safe and inclusive environment for students aged 10 to 18, emphasizing their rights and the importance of activism.
Funding and Sponsorship
The majority of the event’s costs, including the venue, supplies, and transportation, were covered by federal funds from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A portion of the event, specifically a $9,000 catered lunch, was sponsored by Viiv Healthcare, an HIV pharmaceutical company. Viiv Healthcare stated that their sponsorship extended beyond just the lunch, providing additional resources to students.
Event Activities
The Galaxy Summit featured a variety of presentations and workshops. Students learned about their rights within CPS, including the ability to change their name and pronouns at school without parental consent. They were also educated on the importance of activism, mental health coping skills, and the Ballroom community. Workshops included topics on mental health, dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and various crafts.
Parental Consent and Student Rights
To attend the summit, students were required to submit consent forms signed by their parents. Presentations highlighted that students could access facilities and participate in activities aligning with their gender identity without parental consent. CPS emphasized creating a supportive environment for all students, including those in the LGBTQ+ community.
Activism and Mental Health
The summit aimed to inspire students to become activists within their communities. Workshops covered various methods of advocacy, including marches, writing, digital activism, and peaceful protests. Mental health was a significant focus, with workshops providing coping strategies and emphasizing the importance of mental health support, particularly for LGBTQ+ youth.
Viiv Healthcare’s Role
Viiv Healthcare, a company specializing in HIV treatments, played a crucial role in sponsoring the event. The company viewed the summit as an opportunity to empower youth and promote their mission to end the HIV epidemic. They provided not only financial support but also resources and visibility at the event.
Conclusion
The Galaxy Summit by Chicago Public Schools was a comprehensive event designed to educate and empower students about their rights, the importance of activism, and mental health. Supported by federal funds and corporate sponsorship, the summit fostered a safe and inclusive environment, encouraging students to advocate for themselves and their communities.
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