Story #55: Ayanna Pressley’s Inspiring Visit to RYI in 2015

Ayanna Pressley is the U.S. Representative for Massachusetts's 7th congressional district and the first Black woman elected to Congress from Massachusetts, known for her advocacy on social justice, equity, and community empowerment.

In 2015, the Roxbury Youth Initiative (RYI) had the distinct honor of welcoming Ayanna Pressley, Boston’s first woman of color elected to the City Council. Her visit was not just a moment of pride for the campers and staff, but a pivotal reminder of the power of community engagement and youth advocacy.

RYI recognized that children from inner-city neighborhoods face unique challenges—limited access to healthy food, few opportunities for personal growth, and a struggle to find their voices in a complex world. In response, they launched the "Live Healthy, Be Healthy" initiative in 2014, a multi-year project aimed at addressing these critical issues. By 2015, RYI was expanding its efforts to empower youth, helping them embrace their identities and advocate for themselves and their communities.

When Ms. Pressley arrived at the camp, she didn’t just come to speak; she came to listen. Campers eagerly engaged with her, sharing their thoughts on the struggles they faced—everything from the limited hours of the school day to the overabundance of corner stores filled with unhealthy snacks. They were curious about how she had risen to her position and what she envisioned for the future of their neighborhoods.

Ms. Pressley’s words resonated deeply with the campers. She encouraged them to believe in their potential, reminding them that they could achieve anything they set their minds to:

"Never give up,…and don’t let anyone tell you no." - Ayanna Pressley, providing advice to the children of RYI.

Her visit was more than a photo opportunity; it was an empowering exchange that reinforced the importance of community, resilience, and the belief that change is possible. The impact of her visit extended beyond that day. The staff left with a renewed dedication to fostering youth leadership and service, inspired by Ms. Pressley’s message. They were reminded of their mission to create a space where young people can explore their identities, advocate for their communities, and develop the skills they need to succeed.

PBHA expresses great gratitude to Ayanna for her powerful visit to one of their twelve SUP camps.

Ayanna Pressley (top, left corner)

Ayanna is surrounded by campers, a junior counselor, and director from RYI.

Photo from 2015.