In Chicago, Downtown Day allows teens to feel welcome, safe and seen in the city, but many say they wish that was the case year-round.
They expressed that opinion on Saturday at the annual event, which brings more than 1,000 young people from the South and West Sides into the city for workshops, tours and activities.
The initiative is hosted by youth empowerment nonprofit My Block, My Hood, My City, which partners with more than 30 businesses and organizations, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium and Water Tower Place, to offer the experiences. (This year, WBEZ was also listed among the participants.) Each teen receives a $50 prepaid debit card to use at destinations of their choice…