Rural and Migrant Ministries Update
Barb Deming
A special shout out to JOY (Justice Organization of Youth) for leading the charge toward a public hearing which led to Wayne County voting to NOT declare an emergency blockade to keep out refugees, but instead voted to welcome them. As far as we know, this is the only county to do this in NY!
Graduation ceremonies were celebrated at RMM’s Youth Empowerment programs during June. We should never underestimate the power and opportunity of a young person graduating from high school. The majority of our folks are headed to college. Again, in light of the Supreme Court decision on affirmative action, this is a big deal, and something that RMM is putting even more energy into.
RMM hosted a leadership institute focused on Stopping Exploitation of Youth in the Work Place. Young leaders from across the State came together to learn to build campaigns to stop that exploitation.
Summer Day Program in Lyons was a success and joy for the children and their parents. Art, crafts, exercise, swimming, and team-building activities filled the two-week program. Multiple greatly appreciated volunteers helped with transportation, chaperoning, teaching, and maintenance.
Interested a More Direct Role?
Come join the Farmworker Celebration & Walk, supporting youth, rural women and NYS farmworkers on September 23 at Asbury First Methodist, 1050 East Ave. Lunch (12-2) will feature a shared meal, message of hope from RMM honorees. Walk (3-4). To purchase tickets or support RMM programs, go to https://ruralmigrantministry.org.