Brooklyn kids map solutions to gun violence

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- For 16 years, Clarissa James, co-founder, and executive director of D.I.V.A.S. for Social Justice, has been nurturing young minds in underserved communities across Brooklyn and Queens.  

D.I.V.A.S., which stands for Digital Interactive Visual Arts and Sciences for Social Justice, focuses on empowering youth through technology for social change. 

One of their impactful programs is the free, after-school S.T.E.A.M. program, equipping students aged nine to 14 with critical 21st-century skills. 

 "We want to make sure they're working towards economic justice and something that's really going to serve them," James highlights, emphasizing the program's focus on skills relevant to today's job market. 

But S.T.E.A.M. goes beyond just technical expertise. The program is designed to make students active participants in their communities. This year's project, the Anti-Gun Violence Asset Mapping Project, tackles a crucial issue. Students not only learn community mapping through Google Maps but also conduct street audits, documenting local initiatives and entrepreneurs making a positive difference.  

This information is then compiled into an interactive map, becoming a valuable tool for those advocating for solutions to gun violence. 

"So often we're always looking at the deficits in communities of color," James explains. "With our program, we are encouraging our students to highlight the assets of their community for that to be expanded on." 

The program also caters to younger children. They use giant vinyl floor maps, transforming community mapping into a game, and introducing them to urban planning concepts in a fun and engaging way. 

"I think it's important for people to understand that STEM or STEAM is not exclusive," James says. "STEM is part of everyday life." 

The D.I.V.A.S. afterschool program is offered at multiple schools in Queens and Brooklyn.  

Deborah Johnson, principal at Trey Whitfield School in Brooklyn, a participating school, has observed a positive impact on her students. "I think their shift is more about awakening some of their interest," Johnson says. "When they're here in afterschool, it's a time to let down their hair, enjoy one another, so I think it helps to foster good relationships." 

James emphasizes that D.I.V.A.S. for Social Justice goes beyond teaching just tech skills. They cultivate the next wave of changemakers, fostering good relationships and putting kids on a path to becoming problem-solvers and advocates for their communities.