Greetings! It has been a long time since our last newsletter and the HHHTA Committee for Social Justice has great things to share. Since we returned full time from the pandemic, we have been hard at work advocating for social justice issues and increasing awareness among our members.

Two years ago, we launched our annual PRIDE Campaign. HSE Art teacher Alyson Uttendorfer designed our PRIDE T-Shirt, which our members were able to purchase. Members of the HHHTA stepped up to support students and staff who are members of the LGBTQ Community. This year, we worked closely with HHH GSA organizations to emphasize that our schools are safe spaces for all.  Many expressed their gratitude for this initiative.

In June of 2021, President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, making June 19th a federal holiday. Juneteenth is celebrated to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Last June, our members wore T-Shirts, once again designed by Alyson Uttendorfer.This year, we hope to work with the HSW AASO and the HSE BSA in developing programs for our students.

This past year included the start of our Book Club. We have had three events so far, all taking place at the Lake House in Bayshore. During our meetings, members enjoyed brunch while engaging in discussions about social justice issues. The books we have covered so far have been The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros, Everywhere You Don’t Belong by Gabriel Bump, and The Story of Jane by Laura Kaplan. We are planning on another event this Spring and encourage all interested members to attend.

A new initiative we are very excited about is our first Social Justice In The Arts event, an event to promote diversity and inclusiveness in the HHH community! The event will take place on March 31st at HSE. Through the arts (song, dance, poetry, art, music, etc.), students are encouraged to share stories, experiences and ideas relating to social justice. Club advisors are encouraged to ask their students to get involved in what we hope to be an annual event. 

We are always looking for new members to join our team. If you believe that we have a responsibility to work for the common good and desire to make a difference, please consider getting involved.  We meet once a month at the HHHTA Office. Any questions, please contact Deb Rothar at
debrarothar@hotmail.com. Hope to hear from you!