Local Teens Speak Out at Inaugural D.C. Teen Summit

March 25, 2026

The D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation hosted its first Teen Summit on March 13 at the Columbia Heights Community Center, creating a platform for young people aged 13-18 to voice their concerns and engage in meaningful dialogue. The event, inspired by BET's historic "Teen Summit" program, was designed by incorporating input from teen focus groups and provided students a constructive way to spend their school wellness day while earning community service hours. Five teen panelists joined two adult community advocates on stage to discuss topics ranging from career development and self-acceptance to police interactions and teen curfews.

Who is affected

D.C. residents ages 13-18 (teenagers)
Teen panelists: Jordan Williams (18), Yasameen Kakar, Laila Thomas, Hailey Wood, and Samierah Woods
Kaitlyn Arbit (16), an attendee seeking guidance
D.C. Public Schools students
Over 100,000 young people served by DPR annually
Adult moderator/advocate Poet Taylor (WPGC-FM)
Adult panelists Tia Bell (Trigger Project founder) and David "Big Zo" Wilkerson
DPR staff including Director Thennie Freeman, Safiyyah Aleem-Woods, and Kiara Stevenson

What action is being taken

DPR is prioritizing youth events in their budget
DPR is ensuring events remain at no cost to young people
DPR staff are advocating for youth programming
Kaitlyn Arbit is being invited to join DPR's Teen Youth Advisory Committee

Why it matters

This summit matters because it provides underserved youth with a legitimate platform to voice their needs and concerns directly to adults in positions to help them. The event addresses a critical gap in youth engagement by creating safe spaces where teenagers can discuss real-world challenges—from fitting in and self-acceptance to interactions with law enforcement—without judgment. By prioritizing free, accessible programming and incorporating teen input into planning, DPR demonstrates institutional commitment to supporting young people's development during a crucial life stage. The summit also counters negative stereotypes about teenagers being disengaged, instead empowering them as leaders and decision-makers in discussions affecting their lives.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer