Margaret Parker, Youth Organizer

My name is Margaret Parker. I was born on August 10 and I live in DC. My favorite color is purple. I like getting things accomplished and using my time wisely. I like coffee flavored ice cream. My favorite movies are Four Brothers and Hitman. I enjoy being in YEA because it is a youth led group that lets me express my opinions about any of the issues that we come across. I have grown while being in the setting of YEA and learned many things.

Jonathan Stith, Lead Organizer

I believe real education leads to liberation and young people change the world because they still believe in its promise. These two thoughts are what push me to come to work every morning. I have been a youth worker / organizer for about 10 years. Before I came aboard YEA, I jumped in the game at Community IMPACT! I started as an AmeriCorps*VISTA coordinating youth service programs and eventually became the North East Youth Organizer. From there, I was the first Director of the DC Youth Advisory Council. When I am not riding for YEA, I am a steering committee member of the Justice for DC Youth Coalition.  

Since working at YEA, the one lesson I have learned is a movement is only as good as its organizers. I read that in the autobiography of Kwame Toure. It’s true. A house is a reflection of the architect. I am oversimplifying but you get the point. Where is Jonathan going? Besides crazy, I don’t know. But I do know once justice is achieved in the world, I will retire to operate a ferry in a Caribbean island, where I will spin tall tales to tourists over fat beats. Hip-Hop is definitely the soundtrack of my life. I love just about anything from Dead Prez but you can catch my ear with anything with a dope beat and a message.   

Ayanna Sutton, Youth Organizer