Elwood-John H. Glenn High School mock trial students have recently come together to support equality. Over the past several weeks, the team has developed a series of videos, featuring powerful messages from current students, alumni, teachers and community members.
The initiative, titled “Advocates for Good,” began on June 16 and will run through June 26. Each week, the team will launch 1-2 videos of students sharing their voices and providing information helpful to informing the community. Topics have included voting, supporting students, organizations and educational sites. According to club advisor, Megan Gieser, the team has also offered to collaborate with their peers in “Unity with Diversity” to help make change through letter writing campaigns and by contacting government officials.
One such video featured alumnus Jordan Bryan, a former John Glenn mock trial team member, who encouraged community members to continue to fight against
inequality.
He said, “After processing through so many thoughts feeing and emotions, I am personally tired. I am tired of hate. I am tired of racism and I am tired of inequality. However I am also encouraged. I am encouraged to see that people in our community are tired of these things as well and they’re willing to fight to bring these things to an end.”
He encouraged viewers to advocate for change, educate themselves, as well as others, and “dedicate their lives” through “funds, time, prayers and love.”
Class of 2020 valedictorian Matthew McNierney, who serves as president of the school’s mock trial team, also shared his sentiments in regards to discrimination and racism. He encouraged his fellow classmates and community members to spread love and kindness, and through unity, take action to support those in need.
“Change is overdue. Change is necessary and change is justified,” he said. “But, most importantly change starts with people like us.”