State Rep. Justin Jones inspires students

By Ian Dinkins, Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications

Indeed, Jones’ message was tailored to inspire High Schoolers. Like Dr. King, Jones has engaged young people in advancing his community. As a state legislator, he has called on young voices to amplify the demand for justice, even inviting students in the audience to attend a legislative session later this year.

Jones opened his speech by acknowledging Nashville’s history of youth-driven movements, particularly the 1960s sit-in protests.

“The plaques downtown celebrating the sit-ins show that Nashville and Tennessee have a history of young people taking action to challenge the status quo,” he said.

Nashville has been a focal point for both progress and resistance, including Civil Rights Movement sit-ins and more recent battles over voting rights and police reform. For the students in the audience, Jones’ words served as a powerful reminder of their potential to shape the future of justice.

“Today is both a moment of celebration and a continuation,” Jones said. “We’re still on the journey Dr. King started.”

Throughout his talk, Jones urged students to stay engaged and informed. Afterward, several students asked about how they could best influence change in their communities and stay up to date with developments on Capitol Hill.

“You have the power to shape the conversation, but you need to be equipped with knowledge,” Jones said. “Watch committee meetings, read diverse news sources, and research the funding behind political decisions.”

Jones stressed that understanding the mechanics of change is just as important as having the passion to create it.

In addition to social justice issues, students were curious about the current state legislative agenda.

“What do you think will happen this year in the legislature?” asked Brendan West ’25.

Jones highlighted two key issues: hurricane relief efforts and the ongoing debate over school vouchers. Students listened intently, gaining valuable insight into the practical side of politics and policy-making.

As the conversation wrapped up, students were not only inspired by Jones’ words but also motivated to take action. In a lighthearted moment, they posed for a group selfie with the representative, symbolizing their connection to the future of activism.

Jones, who organized his peers in his 20s to drive tangible change, served as a powerful model for students to understand the impact of youth activism.

“It’s something that might spark something in students,” White said.

The visit reminded students that Dr. King’s work is far from over. As Jones spoke to the next generation of leaders, it was clear that the fight for justice is ongoing — and they have the power to be part of it.