~Photos by Claudia Ferro

On Saturday, April 8, more than 300 youth and adults attended the 11th annual Somerville Youth Peace Conference at the East Somerville Community School.

The conference, entitled Views from the Ville: Fact v. Fiction, featured original performances by Somerville teens based on their own lives, mental wellness workshops, and a services fair.

Attendees shared their own experiences in interactive breakout sessions facilitated by youth. The conference, presented by the Center for Teen Empowerment, Mayor Joseph Curtatone, Somerville Public Schools, and the City of Somerville, examined teen violence, substance abuse, the media and “fake news,” tolerance, immigration,  and other issues. Mayor Joseph Curtatone and other elected officials joined the mostly youth audience to listen to teens’ stories and ideas.

Somerville Speaks breakout sessions followed the stage presentation, seeking to destigmatize depression and other mental health issues, as well as teach coping skills. The campaign includes a youth Mental Wellness Ambassador program and youth-led sessions to increase awareness and conversation around mental wellness and health.