On Friday, February 4th, the University of Minnesota Human Rights Center will be recognizing the winners of the 2010 Youth Against Race, Class, and Place Disparities Contest in an event made possible by the Best Buy Foundation. The award ceremony will take place at the University of Minnesota Law School.
The teen youth of the Lao Assistance Center have won awards in two categories for their entry, “Perception”: "Most Innovative Youth Action Award", and "Best Quality Production Award" and will be receiving an award of a video camera and a cash prize of $100 to continue their efforts.
The awards will be handed out by the filmmaker and producer Daniel Bergin from Twin Cities Public Television whose documentary series, Close the Gap, has been the inspiration for this contest. Bergin will discuss some of his work and provide tips and advice for students interested in pursuing a career or a hobby in filmmaking and media.
In October, the youth submitted their video to the Youth Against Race, Class, and Place Disparities Video Contest. It was designed for students in grades 8-12 in the Twin Cities. The contest sought to educate the public and encourage dialogue and action to eliminate race, class, and place disparities in Minnesota. Each contestant was asked to produce a short film focusing on an issue related to these disparities. The film was to frame the problem in clear terms and offer possible solutions. The youth had the option of doing a video in the form of a public service announcement, music video, comedy sketch, or other short format. Submissions could be made by either an individual or a team, and the videos could be no longer than 2 minutes.
The Lao Assistance Center has been working closely with over 30 Asian American youth to develop key leadership skills necessary for lifelong civic engagement and an understanding of the importance of social justice. Many participate in the Southeast Asians Living Chemically Free Program to educate their peers about the perils of alcohol, tobacco and substance abuse. They have volunteered with the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans, the Dragon Festival, Lao New Years and Asian Pacific American Heritage Month activities.
"As a community we deeply appreciate the work our youth have done," said Lao Assistance Center executive director Sunny Chanthanouvong. "These youth are our future and all of us are pleased to see them taking a stand on issues that matter to them."
The youth will next be organizing two community forums before the beginning of summer with the assistance of the new youth coordinator, Phouthakannha Nantharath, who will be continuing the work of Kinnary Pimpadubsee. For more information on how to get involved with this program contact the Lao Assistance Center at 612-374-4967 or e-mail phouthakannhan@laocenter.org.
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