GEM Conference celebrates 100 young men of color across Connecticut
Hundreds of young men from across Connecticut gathered at Southern Connecticut State University for the third annual Generationally Enhancing Males (GEM) Conference, where participants were recognized for their contributions to their communities and connected with their mentors.
“We have police chiefs coming. We have doctors, deejays, photographers, you name it, they’re going to be here,” said Daniel Hunt, a board member with the Equity Enrichment Alliance. “And it’s good to see, to have the kids see the men in suits and just in different professions so they could potentially be like them when they get older.”
About 800 young men attended the event, which is a collaboration between the Equity Enrichment Alliance and 100 Young Men of Color. Organizers said months of planning goes into creating a space where the boys can be celebrated.
Beyond the conference, the organizations work with students year-round to introduce new opportunities and prepare them for the future.
“They need to know that they are seen, that they are heard,” said June Archer, founder of the Archer Foundation. “In times like now, they feel like there’s no way out, that there are no opportunities or platforms for them to be seen and be heard. And with the GEM Conference and with 100 Young Men of Color, this is what this platform is about.”
Some of the 100 honorees said they were proud to be recognized.
“It feels like an honor to be a part of this,” said Ethan Sanchez of West Hartford. “It makes me feel like I’m one of them and that I am special.”
“It feels great. It’s a great feeling. It’s something my family can be proud of,” said Kameron Pratt of Stratford. “I also get to make my mom proud.”
Organizers said they begin working with participants as early as eighth grade and continue mentoring them through high school, aiming to help them complete their education in Connecticut.
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