Do the Write Thing

DtWT Speaks is a platform for DtWT alumni to illustrate a call to action and share solutions to youth violence through artistic mediums that speak to them.

This piece was created by Adamaris, a 2025 Student National Ambassador from Laredo, TX.

Want to submit your artwork - poetry, video, painting - or another creative form? Make sure to fill out the form on our website, or comment below and we’ll DM you the form directly.

Let your art speak for change.

Time changes are tough - but we are getting through it.

Losing an hour of sleep isn’t easy for students, teachers or parents.

The good news is our bodies are already adjusting, and the payoff is longer days, more sunshine, and the promise of spring.

We’re almost there.

What are you planning to do with your longer evenings?

Happy International Women’s Day.

In heavy times, small practices matter. Gratitude helps us notice what is steady and good. Play helps us reconnect with our strengths and each other. Both build resilience in simple, powerful ways.
 
What is one small thing you are grateful for today, and how will you add a little play to your week?

This week’s Wednesday Wisdom reminds us that when young people struggle, they are rarely carrying those challenges alone - families, educators, and caregivers are often carrying them too.

At our 2026 DtWT Chairs Conference, shared powerful insights on trauma-informed leadership and the importance of seeing both the needs of young people and the weight held by those who support them every day. When basic needs go unmet and systems feel stretched, the responsibility often falls on caring adults who continue showing up, even when the work feels heavy.

Healing happens through relationships, community, and shared responsibility. When we create environments where young people can thrive and where caregivers and educators are supported, not overwhelmed.

We are grateful to Habeebah for challenging us to lead with compassion, awareness, and courage as we continue this work together.

What’s one way you’re helping create healing or connection in your community right now? We’d love to hear from you below.

Shoutout to Rachel Baker, Community Affairs Director for the Office of the District Attorney General, 6th Judicial District in Knoxville, TN.
 
Rachel recently highlighted DtWT on Channel 6 in Knoxville, emphasizing the importance of our program, our dedicated teachers, and everyone who makes this work possible.
 
Thank you, Rachel, for using your voice to uplift this mission, and thank you to District Attorney General Charme Allen, , and Joe Welker for your leadership and continued support!

Supporting youth and building safe communities is more important than ever and our DtWT Chairs Conference was a powerful reminder of the impactful work happening across the country.

We’re grateful to have our Chairs Conference back, and even more grateful that leaders traveled from all over the country to join us in Miami.

New and tenured Chairs came together to collaborate, share what’s working in their cities, discuss challenges, and exchange ideas for the year ahead. Every conversation was thoughtful, solution-driven, and centered on one goal: amplifying student voices to create safer communities. 

We were also honored to hear from our guest speaker, Habeebah R. Grimes , who shared powerful, data-driven insights on youth violence and exploring its root causes and research-based strategies for prevention and response.

It was inspiring to see how each Chair continues to champion this program and elevate youth voices in their community.

Chairs: What was your favorite moment from Miami?

Happy Black History Month! 🧡

This month is not only a reminder to continue uplifting Black voices, but also staying informed, and being intentional about the future we’re creating.

Here are some quotes from amazing Black women who guide, inspire, and remind us of the power of Black women’s voices.

Those brave enough to tell their stories and speak their truths should not also have to carry the burden of driving change alone.
 
It is on us to listen actively, take action, and carry the voices that are often ignored.
 
When we work together, that’s when change happens.
 
It’s when courage meets action, every story is valued, and we get closer to build a safer future.