NYC Men Teach

In a city where the majority of the 8.4 million inhabitants are people of color, it is important that such diversity is reflected in New York City classrooms. Diverse cultures, perspectives, and realities are the backbone of our great city, and increased understanding of the rich diversity in our city affects every aspect of our daily lives. Yet, far too many young people in our City—especially young men of color—will never see someone who looks like them at the chalkboard. If we're going to be serious about addressing inequity in education, economics, health and justice, diverse teachers must be a part of the overall strategy. In January 2015, Mayor Bill de Blasio, in conjunction with New York City's Young Men's Initiative, made a bold pledge: NYC will develop new initiatives and programs aiming to put an additional 1,000 men of color on course to become NYC public school teachers over the next three years. The Young Men's Initiative, together with Department of Education, City University of New York, Center for Economic Opportunity, and Teach for America, excitedly announces the launch of NYC Men Teach to recruit and unite Black, Latino and Asian men committed to educating today's diverse student population; supporting each other's professional and leadership development; and to empowering the communities they serve.