Youth Speaks is working in partnership with other Bay Area youth organizations to host a Youth Town Hall in the wake of the November 5th sentencing of Johannes Mehserle, the former BART Police Officer convicted of killing Oscar Grant.

The forum will be held on Friday, November 12th from 5pm – 7pm at the Pro Arts gallery in Downtown Oakland (99 Kahn’s Alley).

“The main question at hand is, ‘What does real justice look like?’” said Josh Healey of Youth Speaks. “Oscar Grant’s case hits home with young people across the Bay Area who have also faced harassment at the hands of police. If we’re not happy with the trial’s outcome, what justice do we seek – for Oscar Grant’s family and for the whole community?”

“We want to create a space for Oakland’s young leaders to be able to think pro-actively about the kind of leadership they can take to have their voices heard. Young people have led positive movements for social change throughout history, and this forum will highlight young Oakland activists who are taking a powerful, peaceful stand for justice,” remarked Nicole Lee, Director of Urban Peace Movement.

The two-hour event out is a safe environment for young people to speak their mind about the Mehserle sentencing and other issues of police misconduct, including their own experiences. Oscar Grant’s uncle, Cephus Johnson, will be on hand to share his perspective on the trial and how the community can continue to push for justice for Oscar Grant.

There will also be discussion of another hot issue, as young organizers from the Fruitvale neighborhood will speak on their campaign to stop the proposed gang injunction in their neighborhood. Throughout the event, poets and rappers will share pieces inspiring people to use their voice as a tool for uplifting the community.

The event is sponsored by Youth Speaks in collaboration with Urban Peace Movement, AYPAL, Ella Baker Center, and RAW Talent.

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WHAT: Youth Town Hall on Oscar Grant and Police Brutality

WHEN: Friday, November 12th, 5pm – 7pm

WHERE: ProArts Gallery: 199 Kahn’s Alley, Oakland (Frank Ogawa plaza, near 15th & Broadway)

WHO: Youth Speaks, with Urban Peace Movement, AYPAL, Ella Baker Center, and RAW Talent