Connections Crew Semester 1 Recap: Building Community, Creativity, and Leadership
The Connections Crew embarked on an exciting and transformative journey this semester, participating in various activities that fostered creativity, community building, and inclusivity. Here’s a recap of the highlights from Semester 1, along with insights from the crew members.
Graffiti Art: Exploring Expression Through History and Art
On October 23, the Connections Crew held their first “all-crew” activity: a workshop exploring the evolution of graffiti as an art form. Led by Garfield Graduate and educator Mr. Aaron Johnson, the session examined graffiti’s cultural significance, from ancient cave drawings to modern street art.
Crew members practiced drawing their names in bubble style and learned the differences between tags, throw-ups, and fills. The workshop highlighted how graffiti has been used for expression and advocacy, encouraging participants to reflect on causes like conservation, mental health, and anti-racism.
Bowling Tournament: Building Bonds
October 30 brought the crew together for a fun and competitive bowling tournament at the UW Games HUB. Teams comprised members who didn’t know each other, fostering connections through teamwork and friendly competition.
The tournament was an introduction to the kinds of activities crews will lead in Semester 2.
“I was comfortable… because it gave us a chance to get to know each other better.”
“It showed how supportive everyone was of each other as we build our Connections community.”
Mosaic Art Project: You Belong. You Matter.
On November 6, the crew collaborated with Seattle Mosaic Arts to create a collective art piece symbolizing belonging and inclusion. Each member crafted a letter using glass on an adhesive, which was later combined to spell out “YOU BELONG. YOU MATTER.”
The project encouraged participants to reflect on the meaning of being a crew member and brainstorm ways to use the final piece.
“I was included because I felt like I was part of a community.”
“It felt like a chill day. I felt included when we did the collaborative pieces.”
Yes Farm: Supporting Urban Farming
On November 13, the crew braved the rain to volunteer at Yes Farm, part of the Black Farmers Collective. They helped plant and maintain green-spaces, learned about food insecurity, and connected with stories from elders about urban farming.
The experience highlighted the importance of giving back to the community and supporting sustainable practices.
“I got mud all over me. Felt good to feed our community!”
“We should do this at all the other [Black Farmers Collective farms]!”
Wing Luke Museum: Exploring Redlining
November 20 took the crew to the Wing Luke Museum to learn about redlining and its lasting impact on marginalized communities in Seattle. Through maps and guided discussions, participants explored how segregation practices shaped neighborhoods.
The visit prompted meaningful conversations about history, community, and racial equity.
“This happened so recent. I thought it was a long time ago.”
“It was good to be inside one of the places people lived and original furniture.”
Crew Community Agreement
The semester also focused on inclusivity and mutual understanding. Over two weeks, members developed a “Crew Agreement,” outlining shared values and practices to create a safe, supportive space for all.
Guided by sticky-note exercises, the agreement emphasized values like self-regulation, listening, and respecting diverse perspectives.
Preparing for Semester 2
As the semester progressed, the crew also engaged in workshops like Identity & Intersectionality, led by Fawzi Belal, to reflect on personal biases and identities. These experiences have prepared the crew to take on leadership roles in Semester 2, planning and leading their own activities.
The Connections Crew has had a vibrant and impactful Semester 1, setting the stage for an equally meaningful Semester 2. Each activity brought lessons, connections, and memories that will empower the crew as they step into leadership roles.
