This year, the Young Women of Color Symposium brought students from across schools and backgrounds to Loyola Academy to discuss their shared experiences, the importance of using their voice and to embody the symposium’s theme of “building your village.” Fifteen students from Parker and Loyola Academy have been planning this conference since February. Together they chose the theme, affinity groups, and the keynote speaker, Rohini Dey. Dey is an entrepreneur and restaurant owner who specializes in Indian and Latin cuisine, and she is also the founder of “Let’s Talk Womxn,” which is a collaboration of over 350 female restaurateurs. Dey talked about the importance of being outspoken, even when you’re scared, and finding fellow women or people who share your beliefs and experiences to build up your support system. 

“She really encouraged women to stand out and be loud since we live in such a male-dominated society,” sophomore and conference attendee Alaina Prokup said. Afterwards, the Chicago-based performer Senite took to the stage where she sang about healing, growth, and navigating life through music. Senite recently produced and curated “The Bridge,” a musical showcase to raise money for the black-female owned nonprofit bookstore, Semicolon Books. She also has a background in non-profit work and uplifting black and brown artists. 

Some of the conference heads also celebrated their diversity by throwing a fashion show of clothing from their respective cultures, and the opening featured a dance performance from the Loyola Step Team. The remainder of the day focused on meeting in smaller affinity groups as well as attending workshops, such as “Building Your Village Through Art.” Throughout the day, there was a focus on art as a means of community.  

Parker students connected  with young women of color from other schools by having breakout and affinity groups.“You may be hiding certain feelings and thoughts from most people, but having the space to talk to each other about our shared experiences is so important,” sophomore and attendee Selene Gutierrez said.

Attendees spoke about the value of a space where minorities could gather and discuss their struggles amongst those who understand.“Coming together and acknowledging our struggles but then pivoting to build each other up is very powerful,” senior and conference organizer Ava Lin said. College Counseling Coordinator Alexis Pantoja and Upper School Coordinator Rolanda Shepard echoed Lin’s statements on the need for DEIB-focused spaces. “The YWOC Symposium is just one area in which we acknowledge and celebrate the brilliance and importance of young women of color,” Pantoja said. “Regardless of the current administration, it’s extremely important to continue all efforts to champion young women of color across the Chicagoland area,” Pantoja said, highlighting the aspects of connection and empowerment that are key to this year’s theme of “building your village.” “This theme stresses the importance of leaning on other young women for support, guidance, encouragement and sisterhood. Our biggest hope every year is for each young lady to walk away feeling empowered, equipped and capable of conquering any adversity she faces going forward.”