Insight: Voices in Action Day

By Hye-Won Dandino, Director of EICL

On January 26, Eastside Prep will pause its usual rhythm for a day of learning beyond our rigorous academic curriculum to participate in Voices in Action Day. This is the second year we’ve hosted this event, created to honor Dr. King’s legacy by asking: What does his call to justice mean for us today?

Our theme this year—“Speak Up. Stand Out. Spark Change.”—celebrates courage, creativity, and the belief that every voice matters.

• Troy Osaki, acclaimed three-time Grand Slam poet and organizer, who will guide students in exploring their own stories and family histories through poetry.

• Government Letter Writing with EPS teacher David Fierce, where students learn how advocacy works by writing letters to elected officials—even before they can vote.

• Living Voices: The Right to Dream — a dynamic solo stage performance combined with archival film that transforms history into a moving, personal journey. This live show follows Raymond and Ruby, two young African American activists coming of age during the civil rights movement, risking their lives to fight racism and lead efforts for equality and voting rights in the South through the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. The performance will be followed by a Q&A with the actor.

These workshops are more than activities; they’re invitations to think deeply about who we are and the kind of world we want to build. Voices in Action Day reminds us that leadership isn’t reserved for a few—it’s a responsibility we all share. When we speak up for fairness, stand out for inclusion, and spark change through empathy and persistence, we bring Dr. King’s vision to life in our own community.