Special Thanks To From the editor,

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We ‘Ced is a program of Youth Leadership Institute Youth Media Collective

In this ninth issue of the We ‘Ced Youth Media Publication the stories reflected demonstrate that young people of Merced do not shy away from choices that are difficult. Having the ability to make choices has always been a privilege and with an amplified range of life threatening factors, such as being considered an essential worker, the privilege of choice has been more exposed. In a time where choice is influenced by many factors, including a global pandemic, political turmoil and a climate crisis, young people continue to face life’s turning points such as transferring to college, coming out and living with grief. They manifest strength and confidence to make choices that will positively impact their lives and the lives of their community. As trusted adults mentoring the reporters of the We ‘Ced Youth Media cohort we have been grateful to accompany the young people throughout their life stages and see the personal reflection as well as growth they have made through being storytellers with We ‘Ced Youth Media. We are also grateful to the readers for following the stories shared by the youth of Merced and have faith that readers will continue witnessing the evolution of young people through our publications and events. Thank you.