Calling For Peace
Group Works to Prevent Hate Crimes
Interviewed by KMBC’s Peggy Breit Jan. 20, senior Kahluna Bouchard, junior Raymond Aquino and senior Ali Harb talk about their cause and the Peace Walk. On feb. 7 from 3-5 p.m., ELL is hosting a Peace Walk at Staley. “we’re going to be asking the community or the parents to bring their children so we can educate the younger generation,” Bouchard said to Breit.
After losing sophomore Adam Skiekh-Hussein to a hit-and-run in December, students in the English Language Learners Leadership class have worked to raise money and awareness to stop hate crimes. The class has made it their mission to spread a message of peace and understanding, according to ELL teacher Heather Macintosh.“Change starts with us. I guess that’s what I hope,” Macintosh said. “That’s what the kids hope. People will change their actions and think about what they do so the world will be a better place.”
They have raised more than $5,000, including New Mark Middle School’s contribution. Of the money, 80 percent will be donated to a hate crime prevention foundation and 20 percent will go to Adam’s family, according to senior Ali Harb.
“We hope that people understand that everyone is the same. We bleed the same color,” said Harb, who has been promoting their campaign against hate. “No need for hate because someone is different whether it’s from their skin color or their beliefs.”
The Leadership class has reached out with social media and letters. They have gained support from major Kansas City icons such as Jenny Matthews from radio station MIX 93.3 and local musician Tech N9ne. Mayor Sly James has also shown support for the anti-hate campaign.
“I was really surprised, and it made feel good, because now not only is the school involved, but the entire country,” said junior Tommy Vo, who created the T-shirt design.
Other classes, including AVID, 2D Art and 3D Art, have shown their support by making symbols of peace and projects to honor victims of hate crimes for a Peace Walk being held inside Staley.
“It’s unbelievable. I’m so happy for all the support and help we’re getting with this campaign,” Harb said. “The ELL Leadership class is so thankful for the help and support we’re getting. ”
Like many museums, the Peace Walk will be divided between the first and second floors of the school. The upstairs will be describing those victims of hate-crime, while the downstairs will be honoring humanitarian that have stood against violence.
“There are 20 people that have been killed because of some difference that they might have, whether it is religion, sexual orientation, gender, race, all of these things,” said Macintosh.
The Peace Walk is free and will be held from 3 p.m. to 5p.m. on Feb. 7. Donations will be accepted during the walk and anytime in room CR204. “Enough is Enough” T-shirts are also available for $10.
