On Friday, October 25th, 2019, members of the youth-led Action Research Team hosted Deep Center’s first-ever youth-centered candidate forum. The candidate forum included Mayoral and Alderman At-Large Post 1 and Post 2 candidates for the 2019 city council election. 

Photo by Laura Mulder

The forum revolved around the Deep Center’s recently released policy brief, Our Stories Are the Evidence: Youth-Powered Policies for a More Equitable Savannah. In addition, youth team members asked questions on topics such as policing, immigration and sanctuary-city status, public transportation, Americans with Disabilities Act compliance and accessibility in the historic district, and more.

Photo by Laura Mulder

“Deep’s Action Research Team is laying the foundation for a new model of what youth leadership and youth-led civic engagement looks like in Savannah,” said Deep Center’s Executive Director Dare Dukes. “An engaged youth electorate makes for a healthy democracy and more responsive government. We all win when Savannah’s young people research issues, question candidates for office, hold decision makers accountable, and vote.”  

Photo by Laura Mulder

“I’m feeling hopeful now that I know candidates’ stances and thoughts on issues dear to me and fellow youth,” said Action Research Team member Rush George.

To see the complete album of photos by Laura Mulder, click here.