Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office will host an all-girls youth conference in recognition of Women’s History Month tomorrow, Thursday, March 14.
Over 200 high school students from various schools in Essex County are expected to attend the “We Run the World!” youth conference. The goal of the one-day summit is to inspire and empower young ladies to reach their goals and learn about resources available in their communities.
This invitation only youth conference will be held at the Essex County College Police Academy, located at 250 Grove Avenue in Cedar Grove from 9:0 0 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Acting Essex County Prosecutor Murray will give the welcome address.
Caryl Lucas, motivational speaker and former reporter with The Star-Ledger newspaper, will be the keynote speaker. Ms. Lucas’ speech will focus on “Girls Rule the World!”: Seven Rules for a Healthy Self Esteem, Healthy Choices & Healthy Friends.
Workshop sessions will include:
1) “David’s Shoes:” In this workshop students will learn how violent crimes impact lives. The presenter is the mother of a victim of gun violence. She collects shoes for victims of violent crimes and discusses how their lives have changed. The aim of the workshop is to reduce teen violence.
2) “Internet Safety: “Facebook’s out in space” is an interactive workshop where students will be made aware of the dangers of online predators and ways to keep safe on the Internet. Students will also learn about the dangers of cyber bullying and preventive tools.
3) “Love Shouldn’t Hurt:” This workshop will discuss the issue of teen dating violence. The workshop will teach students about the signs of abusive relationships, so they can make better choices for themselves.
4) “A Healthy You!” is a workshop taught by a registered dietician to provide students with the tools needed to build a healthy and positive relationship with their bodies, gain confidence and raise self esteem.
The conference will include an interactive segment designed to engage students about the consequences of life situations. It will also include a session about various career opportunities. Local colleges, universities, hospitals and social service agencies will have information tables at the event. It is our hope that students will leave this conference with a better understanding of themselves and careers.
For additional information, please contact Assistant Prosecutor Gwendolyn Williams, Director of the Juvenile Unit, at 973-621-5381or Nicole Graves-Watson at 973-621-5377.
