Explore Our Unique and Collaborative Projects
Our projects are carefully selected and voted within the chapter
of youth commons through respectful discussion and brainstorming.
Youth Commons is proud to introduce Youth Empowerment, a new initiative designed to inspire, educate, and activate young leaders eager to shape the future of politics and governance. This project channels the collective curiosity and passion of students into a powerful platform that explores critical issues, challenges norms, and drives meaningful dialogue at the intersection of youth engagement and global affairs.
At the heart of Youth Empowerment is a diverse podcast series featuring conversations with renowned public figures, research fellows, government officials, and thought leaders across various sectors. Through these intimate and thought-provoking discussions, students will gain insider perspectives on pressing issues—from the nuances of American political structures to the evolving dynamics of international diplomacy, Korean politics, and global youth activism. The goal is to bridge the gap between young people and influential changemakers, fostering an environment where emerging leaders can ask bold questions and seek actionable insights.
In addition to podcasts, Youth Empowerment will produce informational videos and current political reviews aimed at breaking down complex topics into digestible, engaging content. Whether through deep dives into the electoral process, analyses of bipartisan issues, or updates on youth movements around the world, this initiative will empower students to stay informed and lead with clarity and conviction.
A major focus will be on increasing youth participation—not just in voting, but in shaping policy, engaging in civil discourse, and building bridges across political divides. Through platforms like YouTube and other digital media channels, Youth Commons will amplify student voices, sparking dialogue that transcends classrooms and connects with a broader, global audience.
The Berkshire Youth Commons Chapter is dedicated to addressing pressing issues surrounding women’s rights, including reproductive rights, economic equality, adolescent healthcare, and the fight against sexual violence throughout the 2024-2025 academic year. Through bi-weekly meetings, chapter members engage in educational discussions and conduct comprehensive research into the political dimensions of women’s rights, seeking to foster understanding and common ground across differing viewpoints.
As their understanding deepens, Berkshire Chapter members will refine their skills in political opinion writing, legislative drafting, and persuasive political communication. By June 2025, they plan to complete several initiatives that spotlight women’s rights, both in the United States and globally. Furthermore, the chapter aspires to organize a school-wide or community event to shed light on the damaging impact of political polarization on these essential issues.
Berkshire Youth Commons Chapter’s ultimate mission is to strengthen their collective research, writing, and public speaking abilities, empowering them to reduce polarization and advocate effectively on behalf of women’s rights in today’s world.
As the 2024 Presidential Election season approaches, Youth Commons and the Center for Citizenship and Just Democracy (CJD) at the Frederick Gunn School is focusing on a key theme: “Civic Respect.”
In a time marked by political polarization, Youth Commons and CJD aims to cultivate an environment where students engage in respectful, thoughtful political discourse. The theme is inspired by the scholarship of Jeff Spinner-Halev and Elizabeth Theiss-Morse, emphasizing two essential principles: “recognition respect”—acknowledging the intrinsic moral worth of all individuals—and “democratic engagement,” which encourages openness to diverse political perspectives.
Youth Commons and CJD’s initiative aligns with its broader mission of preparing students for active, informed citizenship. Throughout the election season, the FGS Chapter will host a series of events, discussions, and debates that emphasize pluralism and respectful engagement. These initiatives are designed to help students practice disagreeing constructively, deepening their understanding of differing viewpoints. Central to these efforts is the recognition that democracy thrives when individuals can discuss their differences in a spirit of mutual respect.
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our previous workshops and projects
Executive Director Hyunjun Ryu
Email: commongroundx.org@gmail.com
Copyright 2023. Hyunjun Ryu
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