Following the death of George Floyd, Zion Nuby collaborated with local college students to organize simultaneous demonstrations in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. Zion was the lead organizer of a peaceful protest at South County High School that drew more than 300 participants, and he worked with other grass roots organizers to consider necessary logistics to assure that the event was safe. He initiated direct contact with the Fairfax County Police Department and the South County school administration, and he reached out to other high school students to participate with the planning. Together they purchased masks, snacks, water, and poster supplies to prepare for and share on the day of the demonstration. Zion also created graphics that were used to advertise the event through social media.

The protest at South County gave students, staff, and the surrounding community a way to safely participate in the nationwide movement of demonstrations and to experience a moment of togetherness, healing, and solidarity. This effort also led to consultation with the Fairfax NAACP and planning additional events for the community to share personal stories and empowerment.

Zion believes change and progress can come through dialog as well as demonstrations of unity. As a freshman, he founded the South County Debate Association as a forum for political discussions and peaceful conversation about controversial issues. Zion is fully engaged in the school community and has continued his leadership and enthusiasm for encouraging others during the school closing. He has been active in student government and has represented the class of 2022 as a sophomore and junior class officer. In addition to participating in and leading established traditions and programs, Zion has created new opportunities for student involvement. He also served as president of the school’s Model Congress and as vice president of the Young Democrats club.

Zion sees enhanced dialog, respecting differences of opinion, and listening to one another as counters to current tribalism and divisiveness. Toward this end, he hopes to further enhance dialog at South County, perhaps in a school forum, involving the school’s police officer, the Black Student Alliance, and Student Government. He is a firm believer in the First Amendment’s rights of free speech and assembly, and he hopes one day to study constitutional law, become a lawyer, and enter politics.