Each year, we highlight students’ work and reflections on the impacts of history and its relevance to their generation through the #MyHistoryMyFuture digital campaign. The campaign encourages students to not only reflect on the past but to be proud of where they come from and take action to make their schools, communities, and the world a better place for future generations.
The Campaign launched in 2018 to celebrate Black History Month and honor the exceptional students in My Brother’s Keeper programs across New York State. Since then, we have expanded its reach to showcase students of all backgrounds, recognizing their dedication to their communities and leadership. Through this initiative, we highlight and celebrate their impact during cultural heritage months, amplifying their voices and achievements. Students can participate by submitting responses on the New York State Department of Education’s website here.
This year, we are launching our inaugural Student Lab in partnership with ADELANTE Student Voices and The Brotherhood Sister Sol, working alongside an inspiring group of high school students. Through the Lab, students will develop awareness of state-level education policy and advocacy, equipping them with the skills they need to advocate for themselves in high school and college.
We asked them what they want the future to look like. This is what they had to say:
A Future Where All Can Thrive
“I want a future that is the opposite of what we are heading towards. I want to grow up in a world where the arctic isn’t a puddle, where the lady on the corner can sell her tortillas, where rainbows aren’t burned, where healthcare isn’t a crime, where a uterus isn’t a debate, where a school is a safe place.”
“I want a future where accommodations are unnecessary because we have built a society not rooted in exclusion. I want a future where education and policy are designed with every student in mind from the start, not as a fix for a broken system.”
“I want the future to be better for everyone and not just a specific group of people. Specifically, ending discrimination whether it’s racial, ethnic, class, religious, etc.”
“I envision a future where people no longer act out of fear, but are led by hope and the drive for progress, creating a society that is safe, secure, and justice for all. In this world, our decisions are shaped by a shared vision of a brighter tomorrow, where trust, unity, and innovation guide us forward.”
A Brighter Future Powered by Peace
“I want a future without any war and a better education for all children around the world.”
“I envision a future where innovation cures diseases, education empowers every child, and communities unite to tackle global challenges with compassion and creativity — a world where kindness, sustainability, and diversity lead us toward a brighter, more equitable tomorrow.”
A Future Where All Students Have the Support They Need to Reach Their Full Potential
“I want the future to be better for scholars in high school who don’t have a guidance or mentor motivating them to succeed and progress in life. I would like for the future to hold programs to prepare the youth to be successful in life. I want to see the future offer more success.”