By Chrissa Carlson
Over the last several days, as I watched Baltimore unravel, and then immediately begin to stitch itself back together, I’ve continually asked myself: what is my part in this? What choices can I make in life and work to contribute to eliminating systemic injustices and inequality? I’ve also been aware that, as a middle class white woman, it is a privilege to be able to ponder this question. For so many people in this town, the struggle for opportunity is part and parcel of daily existence.
While the involvement of some young people in the unrest on April 27 was disturbing to some, 
I have been in awe of how our students, guided by teachers and community leaders, have begun to reclaim the narrative: through essays shared on social media, gatherings to discuss student perspectives and concerns, and through organized peace marches. One of the largest peaceful protests to date, held on Wednesday evening, was led by students.
On Monday evening, the media’s reports of destructive acts taking place around Baltimore repeatedly touched on themes indicating that our city’s young people are careless and violent. Disparaging language, some of which has been recanted, was being thrown around by local and national leaders. But as soon as students returned to school on Wednesday, they began assertively and poignantly developing and sharing a counter narrative. Social media is brimming with evidence of students articulating the standards by which they steer their own actions, by which they represent themselves to their peers and community. For Baltimore City’s student population, the vast majority of which face systemic barriers to opportunity, this may be the first time they’ve faced the urgency to write this story, rather than letting it be written for them. And I know they will step up to the script they’ve set forth for themselves.
I have worked with and in Baltimore City Public Schools for 12 years in a variety of capacities. Make no mistake, teaching is grueling work: our students face tremendous challenges and tragedy in their homes and communities on a daily basis, and they bring this weight with them into the classroom. And yes, at times, I have felt hopeless. But it has never, ever been because I lost hope in my students—only in the institutions and social structures that are meant to serve them.
Over the past few days, we’ve re-shared a few stories of City Schools students who work and learn at Great Kids Farm, adding our voice to the chorus of organizations and individuals committed to sharing what we know is true about our students (if you haven’t already been overwhelmed by the grassroots effort to reclaim and share Baltimore’s authentic story via social media, search #TheRealBaltimore). But there are so many more students I want you to know. Like Marcus, one of Great Kids Farm’s earliest interns, who served on Friends of Great Kids Farm board for three years, and has now graduated from college and begun a career in the nonprofit sector serving as a Volunteer Maryland Coordinator at the Baltimore Community Toolbank. Or Donyae’, about to graduate and begin college in pursuit of a career in law enforcement. Or Anthony, whose vision of the path he will take to become a professional chef is non-negotiable: he will earn his associates degree at community college before completing his education abroad. Or Lemuel, who wants to build on his experiences at Great Kids Farm by completing an apprenticeship on a livestock farm. We’re working with our partners at Future Harvest to match him with a farmer-mentor.
Am I asserting that Great Kids Farm is responsible for these young people’s success? No. Do I think we’re a strand in the social fabric that has delivered them to young adulthood with determination, a sense of self, and a vision for their future? Absolutely. Do we need more resources for youth-serving organizations to guide them toward a bright path? It’s imperative.
So as you think about your part in healing Baltimore, and creating a more just city where leading a successful and productive life is equally accessible to all, consider whether your time, talents, or treasure might be directed in a way that supports our young people. As a community, we must believe in the inspired spirit inside each child, and show them that realizing their aspirations, no matter what situation they were born into, is not just about helping them—its an absolute necessity to sustaining our city.
Click here for a list of ways you can help Baltimore heal from the recent unrest.
To participate in a food justice forum, and learn how food plays a key role in leveling the playing field, register here.
To donate to Friends of Great Kids Farm, and help us embrace more students in a beautiful environment, and nourish them with real food, click here.