DEARBORN — Some 200 students from 78 different southeast Michigan high schools will converge on the University of Michigan – Dearborn campus Saturday, Nov., 6, for a one-day summit sponsored by New Detroit and the University that will explore ways to improve race relations in their schools and neighborhoods.

 The theme of the summit is “You People: Breaking Down Racial Stereotypes.”

“The conference will create an environment in which these young leaders can truly feel safe in talking frankly about an issue that has kept this region divided for far too long,” said New Detroit President and CEO Shirley Stancato. “This is an outstanding opportunity for these young leaders to develop effective strategies to take back to their schools and their communities to deal with racism when they confront it.”

 The conference, whose agenda was developed by a steering committee that included students who will be at the conference, will run from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  It is New Detroit’s third youth summit on race relations.

 “It’s exciting because these young people are committed to creating real change in their schools and communities now,” said Stancato. “In addition, it will be a fantastic opportunity for them to network with other high school students from all over Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.  We are looking forward to a very powerful experience.”

 New Detroit, Inc. is a coalition of leaders from civil rights and advocacy organizations, human services, health and community organizations, business, labor, foundations, education, media and clergy. It is a private, non-profit, tax-exempt organization.

 The mission of New Detroit is to work as the coalition of Detroit area leadership addressing the issue of race relations by positively impacting issues and policies that ensure economic and social equity.

 For more information visit: www.newdetroit.org