Students for Humanity, a new student group focused on human rights activism, held its initial meeting on February 10.
The club was founded by juniors and co-presidents Avery Nowak and Lola Schwerha, who felt a desire to create a space for students interested in discussing social and political issues from a progressive perspective. They reached out to their friends to get involved, and Schwerha proceeded to get Latin teacher Stacy Cunningham to sponsor.
“We wanted to create a place for progressive students where they can discuss their beliefs and values,” Nowak said.
One of the human rights issues that has sparked engagement is the controversy behind ICE, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a US federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement. The agency’s practices involving identification, detention, and deportation have drawn national attention and criticism.
“There’s a ton going on [in the world] with ICE and stuff,” Nowak said. “[ICE is] very prominent and affects a ton of people.”
While immigration policy has been a key topic, the club’s focus extends beyond any single issue. During early meetings, members emphasized promoting equality and creating a space where students feel comfortable in open discussion.
“[Our club is for] intellectual discussion,” Nowak said. “We [also] have many elements of a social community. We want to incorporate some volunteering and involvement.”
Students for Humanity’s Instagram page, @nchstudentsforhumanity, states that they focus on “fostering compassion and equality” and offer “a space for progressive students.” Their club aims to discuss political issues from a reformed viewpoint and provide volunteer opportunities to members related to human rights issues
Junior Logan Bergholtz, the club’s event coordinator, said he was drawn to the club because of its hands-on approach to modern issues.
“[I wanted] to get involved with modern-day issues and be able to educate others,” Bergholtz said. “I want to be informed and keep others informed [on social issues].”
Their club plans not just discussion but action, planning to organize volunteer events, fundraisers, and initiatives such as Feed My Starving Children, supporting homeless shelters, and sending care packages to children in need.
“We try to touch on numerous issues,” Nowak said. “At our last meeting, we [had] a discussion at the end that was [about] what ideas do [our members] want to do.”
Board members state that the club is different from others with in-depth and non-judgmental political discussions and a fast pace at which members engage with topics.
In addition to its community involvement, the club aims to foster personal growth among students. Bergholtz explained that participation encourages students to challenge ideas and embrace change safely.
“People [can] learn to not be scared and to take on new ideas,” Bergholtz said. “Change is good, and it helps with everyday life.”
Members of their board encourage you to join if you feel encouraged to make a difference or stay informed about social issues. Students for Humanity is open to anyone, regardless of political views or opinions, and the board encourages participation from all students.
Students for Humanity meets every other Tuesday at 7:10 a.m. in room 305 and offers volunteer opportunities outside of school.