Co-Written By: Siara White, Bayyinnah “Bea” White, and Dr. Kyra Caldwell Templeton, Program Director of Student Engagement & Co-Advisor of the Student Advisory Council (SAC)
In a bold show of youth-led activism, students from across the country, including a standout representative from Atlanta Public Schools (APS), gathered in Washington, D.C. for a powerful Capitol Hill Advocacy Day hosted by KABOOM! in partnership with Clif Kids. The event, held in early June, centered on one clear goal: advocating for equitable access to outdoor play spaces for every child, no matter their background or ability.
The three-day experience invited students ages 12–17 and their accompanying parent or guardian to become champions for inclusive play. KABOOM! a national nonprofit dedicated to ending play space inequity, created an immersive program that equipped families with advocacy tools, gave them direct access to lawmakers, and built momentum for community change.
A Full Schedule of Purpose and Power
The trip began with warm welcomes and community building on Tuesday evening. After checking in at the hotel, participants met for dinner at PJ Clarke’s near the White House, a perfect kickoff that mixed casual connection with anticipation for the next day’s mission.
Wednesday was the heart of the experience. After breakfast and a team huddle, participants broke into advocacy groups and traveled to Capitol Hill. From 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., students and their families met with members of Congress and their staff, advocating for the importance of investing in inclusive, safe, and accessible playgrounds across the country. The day wrapped with a reflective walking tour of the National Mall’s monuments. Additionally, Siara White, a middle school student at Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy (CSKYWLA), was joined by her mother and APS employee, Bayyinnah “Bea” White. Both were able to visit Howard University, cementing the overall experience.
The trip concluded on Thursday morning with breakfast and heartfelt goodbyes as families departed, many leaving with a renewed sense of purpose and advocacy.
Atlanta’s Voice at the Table
The White’s journey exemplified the transformative power of youth and family advocacy.
“It was inspiring to be surrounded by so many passionate people, each one unique and fighting for their own communities,” Siara White said. “Everyone had a story, a purpose, and a vision for a better, more inclusive future. I left D.C. feeling proud, hopeful, and motivated knowing that together, we are helping to build spaces where all kids can play, belong, and thrive.”
Bea White echoed those sentiments and said: “Every conversation reminded me how important it is for our kids to have spaces where they can belong and thrive… we’re making a real difference…We’re helping to build playgrounds where every child is welcome, and where families like mine can see their children grow, play, and be themselves.”
Growing Partnerships for Future Impact
The advocacy event highlighted the exciting partnership between KABOOM!, Clif Kids, and Atlanta Public Schools. The discussions among student participants supported a shared vision, further collaborations that amplify youth voice and build inclusive communities.
Next steps include follow-up meetings to explore broader opportunities between KABOOM! and APS, ensuring that what happened in Washington, D.C., translates into lasting impact back home in Atlanta.
As the White’s return to their community, they bring more than memories. They carry the conviction that young voices matter, and when given the platform, they can shape policy, uplift their peers, and reimagine public spaces for generations to come.
