May Updates!
Hi friends,
Happy June — summer is officially here! While schools wind down and eager graduates look to the future, the Dissident Project is taking a moment to look back on a groundbreaking 2024–2025 academic year.
Let’s start with the highlights from May:
Grace Jo gave two impactful speeches at Lafayette Academy in Missouri — first to an assembly of over 100 high school students in the morning, and then again that evening at an event open to parents and donors. Altogether, she reached more than 200 people with her powerful story. Thank you, Grace!
Shay Khatiri traveled to Brooklyn, where he shared his experience with a classroom of 115 students and teachers at New Utrecht High School.
Grace and Shay’s speeches closed out a stellar year of school programming. As we gear up for a full schedule this fall, let’s revisit some other standout moments:
Back in early September, Gaby Blanco set a new Dissident Project record with her presentation at Odessa High School in Texas. Not only did she reach 1,300 students in person, but the event was picked up by Yahoo News, reaching an estimated 2 million people nationwide! It was such a success that we’re planning to return in Fall 2025 — with hopes of reaching even more students.
In late March, Alvin Hailin toured four schools across Kentucky and Alabama, speaking to over 700 students. His story left a deep impression on both students and staff. Jacob Kraschnewski of East Jessamine High School in Kentucky shared:
“Thank you so much for this opportunity to hear from Alvin. Every step of the way, you’ve been supportive, thorough, and responsive to all of my questions. My whole department appreciated the experience, and it was incredible to see students so engaged with Alvin’s inspiring story. We’d love to continue this partnership next school year if possible!”
Jamie Reese from the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering echoed the sentiment:
“He couldn’t have done anything better. Alvin did a tremendous job sharing his story and tying it into the freedoms we enjoy in America, contrasted with the authoritarian nature of China.”
Meanwhile, Daniel Di Martino visited St. John Paul II High School in Arizona, where he spoke to 400 students. Sr. Mary Jordan, our host, wrote:
“Daniel's presentation and his conversation with our senior class were both excellent. There was a lot of buzz afterward — it was a great success. The speakers bureau is a fantastic way to promote freedom!”
And last but certainly not least, Evan Mawarire expanded our network of educators by speaking at Plymouth Middle School in Massachusetts, where he reached 500 students. Our host, Anne Hathaway, shared:
“THANK YOU for coming to our middle schools in Plymouth yesterday. We debriefed today, and the kids had fantastic feedback. They took so much from your story and loved you! Some even asked if we could bring in more speakers. I received emails from parents thanking us for the experience and for the meaningful conversations it sparked at dinner. Your visit was powerful, impactful, and you were a phenomenal presenter.”
We’re incredibly proud of what the Dissident Project accomplished this year, and we’re so thankful for the inspiring speakers, passionate educators, and curious students who made it all possible. Most of all, we’re thankful for supporters like you — your generosity fuels this mission and ensures these stories continue to reach young hearts and minds.
Much more to come in 2025–2026. Stay tuned!
Warmly,
Grace
