Young, Gifted & Black: Why Black Youth Are Stepping Into Policy Conversations Now

In West Virginia, Black youth are no longer waiting on invitations to civic spaces — they are preparing, organizing, and speaking for themselves.

On February 3, Black By God – The West Virginian, in partnership with the Black Voter Impact Initiative, will host Young, Gifted & Black, a Deltas Building Democracy Q&A webinar designed to center Black youth voices ahead of Black Policy Day 2026 at the West Virginia Legislature.

The virtual conversation creates space for young Black West Virginians to ask questions, share concerns, and better understand how policy decisions made at the State Capitol shape their everyday lives — from education and housing to economic opportunity and community investment. Rather than talking about young people, the webinar puts them at the center of the discussion.

The event will be hosted by Dr. Shanequa Smith, with Crystal Good, publisher of Black By God – The West Virginian, joining the conversation. Together, they will guide an accessible, candid dialogue about democracy, leadership, and why Black youth voices matter in policymaking spaces that have historically excluded them.

A powerful lineup of young leaders and community voices will also take part, including Martec Washington, Treyvon Simmons, Takeiya Smith, Oceanna Smith, Rhonda Rogombe, Aicha Sy, Jazmine Hyde, India Frith, Jihad Dixon, and A’Nya Badger. Each participant brings lived experience rooted in West Virginia — and a clear understanding that their futures are being shaped by decisions made today.

For many Black West Virginians, the legislative process can feel distant or intimidating. Young, Gifted & Black is designed to change that. The webinar helps demystify how policy works while reinforcing a simple truth: Black youth belong in these conversations — not later, not someday, but now.

The timing is intentional. As Black Policy Day 2026 approaches, organizers are emphasizing preparation over performative participation. The goal is not just to show up at the Capitol, but to arrive informed, confident, and connected to a broader community of voices advocating for change.

Throughout the years, Black By God – The West Virginian has hosted this series of community webinars and conversations leading up to Black Policy Day, focused on civic engagement, policy education, and Black-led leadership.

Register for BBG’s Building Democracy Webinar Series.

RSVP & Join the Conversation

Community members are encouraged to RSVP and participate live.
When: Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Where: Live on Facebook

Young, Gifted & Black is designed to be interactive, with opportunities to ask questions and engage in real time. Students, parents, educators, organizers, and allies are all encouraged to attend.

As West Virginia prepares for another legislative session, one thing is clear: Black youth are not waiting for permission to lead. They are already doing the work and inviting the community to join them.