Briarcliff Students Inspired by 'Free Hugs Guy' at Kindness Assembly

Last week, students from grades six to 11 at Briarcliff Middle and High School attended an assembly titled 'Why Kindness Matters.' The event featured motivational speaker and peace activist Ken Nwadike Jr., also known as the 'Free Hugs Guy.' Nwadike spoke about his childhood in a Los Angeles homeless shelter during the Rodney King riots. He shared a key conversation with his mother about choosing peace, influenced by Martin Luther King Jr.

During his high school years, Nwadike joined the track team, which helped him find a sense of community and achievement. His success in athletics earned him a college scholarship. He later organized a half marathon in Los Angeles to aid homeless youth. The event, supported by celebrities and the community, attracted over 10,000 participants and raised significant funds, altering Nwadike's view on law enforcement and community involvement.

The assembly addressed the Boston Marathon bombing's impact on Nwadike. The heightened security at public events influenced his approach, but he still attended the Boston Marathon, offering free hugs to runners. This act, captured on video, became widely popular and underscored his commitment to spreading kindness.

Nwadike also talked about the importance of community and personal connections. He mentioned his friendship with a police officer and their collaborative efforts to improve relations between law enforcement and the community through activities like shared meals and basketball games. These efforts aimed to present police officers in a more relatable light to the youth.

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