By Robenia McKinley, Special Correspondent/JYE
The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), whose Black Press USA network carries the Kemet Youth Activity Sheets weekly to member publications nationwide, spotlighted a significant milestone for the youth-centered franchise this weekend. Supported in part by Washington Informer executive and NNPA leader Ron Burke, creator and executive producer Joe Young premiered his new PSA, Kemet: One Nation, Many Journeys, at the National Press Club on Saturday, December 9.
The event brought together human rights advocates, educators, community leaders, and media professionals for an advance screening ahead of the PSA’s national broadcast premiere on major TV affiliates and across social media platforms on Human Rights Day, December 10.
The PSA can be viewed on major social media platforms @kemetcomic.
Filmed at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with support from the National Park Service, the PSA blends live-action scenes, archival immigration footage, and comic-style animation featuring Kemet the Time Traveler. The film traces the shared stories of immigrants whose resilience and hope have shaped the United States.
Please see the KONMJ YOUTUBE LINK at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfbsU1uAXT0.
Panel Highlights: Immigrant Journeys, Youth Education, and Our Shared Humanity
A distinguished panel followed the screening, featuring voices from media, education, and human rights:
Ron Burke, Washington Informer executive, NNPA leader, and longtime mentor to Joe Young
Dr. Walter Milton, Co-Founder of Black History 365
Sir Shefik Macauley, Emmy-winning producer of the Paris Olympics, and producer on the PSA
Attorney Cheryl Sharp, Deputy Director, Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities
Moderator: Alleah Redd
Opening Prayer: Bishop Derek L. Calhoun
Panelists explored the PSA’s themes of immigrant journeys, youth education, and America’s shared humanity, emphasizing the importance of using creative media to help young people understand the nation’s multicultural roots.
Ron Burke highlighted the broader significance of the project:
“Kemet represents the power of storytelling to heal, educate, and unite. What Joe has created isn’t just a PSA — it’s a tool for understanding who we are as a nation. The Black Press has always amplified these kinds of stories, and I’m proud to see this one take its place among them.”
He also reflected on Young’s development as a creator and educator:
“Joe’s dedication to young people and to truth-centered storytelling is something I’ve admired for years. This project gives educators, families, and communities a new way to talk about immigration and identity, and I’m honored to support his vision.”
Gratitude for NNPA and Mentorship
Young acknowledged the meaningful support he has received from the NNPA community, particularly through its weekly distribution of Kemet youth materials. He expressed gratitude for the Black Press’ belief in Kemet’s mission and credited Ron Burke’s mentorship as a guiding influence throughout the PSA’s development and national rollout.
A Project Recognized at the National Level
During their visit to Washington, Joe Young and the Kemet team received a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from the office of U.S. Congressman John Larson, honoring the PSA’s focus on unity and its contribution to national human rights education.
Young emphasized the project’s purpose:
“America’s strength has always come from the journeys of people from around the world. Through Kemet, we want young viewers to recognize themselves as part of a larger American story.”
Music and Youth Talent Give the Film Its Emotional Pulse
Featuring an original score by Grammy-nominated producer Curtis Richardson, vocals by Cruz Angel (winner of Amateur Night at the Apollo), and music student performers from the University of Bridgeport, the PSA uses intergenerational creativity to strengthen its emotional and educational impact.
A Classroom and Community Resource for 2026 and Beyond
Kemet: One Nation, Many Journeys highlights the histories and contributions of Indigenous peoples, Europeans, Africans, Asians, Latinos, and others whose stories are woven into the fabric of America. With its national release underway, the PSA is positioned as a resource for schools, museums, libraries, youth programs, and cultural institutions, with expanded educational outreach planned for 2026.
For more on KEMET please visit https://joeyoung.org/kemet/ and please see the KONMJ YOUTUBE LINK at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfbsU1uAXT0
