Rep. Sykes Hosts Girls in S.T.E.A.M. Expressions of Empowerment Event
Event aims to connect middle school students with opportunities in the S.T.E.A.M. fields
AKRON, OH — U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) hosted a Girls in S.T.E.A.M. event titled “Expressions of Empowerment: Celebrating Black History Through Art.” Girls from Ohio’s 13th Congressional District had the opportunity to learn and hear from local artists and small business owners about their careers, and had the opportunity to create their own art.
“It was an honor to host this event and meet girls from all across Ohio’s 13th Congressional District, who I hope will be inspired to become the next generation of artists, curators, and business owners. It is important that young girls and women see themselves in the spaces they want to occupy, which is why this event was also a celebration of the contributions of Black Americans,” said Rep. Sykes.
The Girls in S.T.E.A.M. initiative, presented by Rep. Sykes, aims to enlighten and inspire girls and young women to pursue professions in science, technology, engineering, art, and math to solve real-world problems which will improve our communities. Girls in S.T.E.A.M. is open to middle school-aged girls from anywhere in Ohio's 13th Congressional District.
The event aimed to provide a space for creative exploration while fostering a deeper connection to Black history, cultural pride, and self-empowerment. Rep. Sykes was joined by East Ave Market & Gallery artist and owner Jacqueline Harris, East Ave Market & Gallery artist and curator Louise Bane, and P31 Art & Design co-founders Stephanie Stewart and Kyla Stewart.