In honor of this year’s election cycle, Gann has focused much of our student programs on civics education. This year’s program echoed the Inauguration Day programming that we’ve planned every four years since Gann’s inception to join with each other and our fellow citizens to witness key moments in our country’s history. Our tekkes (ceremony) framed Inauguration Day in an “only at Gann” way. We heard from students who shared d’var Torahs, charges, and prayers that reflect their hopes and dreams as new voters and the next generation of engaged citizenry.
Yakira ’22, delivered this year’s charge and noted, “I feel extremely grateful and honored to be a part of the Inauguration day programing at Gann. I have been given an amazing opportunity to create a piece that speaks to people. Trying to decide what to say and what people needed and wanted to hear was somewhat difficult. There were many ways I could’ve approached this, but after a lot of brainstorming, I decided this charge would speak directly to people and give them a reason to care. I hope I did it justice and gave the Gann community the hope that they deserve.”
Read Yakira’s full charge to the Gann community below: