"When the whole world is silent, even one voice becomes powerful." - Malala Yousafzai
I’m in love with the youth of our world who actively pursue their visions for our future. They call out problems, they find solutions, and then they make sure their plans are followed through, no matter how long it will take. It’s a quality I look up to. While I was at the March for Our Lives this weekend, there were several people whose photograph I turned around to take and although they kept marching forward, they held their sign up in some sort of active pose. They’ve done this before and they know how they want to represent themselves, and their stance, in what seems like an instant. Maybe this sounds silly or like a trivial moment I’m trying to make into something bigger, but I see something there. It’s that quality I admire again.
These people seem to know who they are, they are aware of their voice, and they’re willing to use it and make it heard. This is not something I did in high school or even until rather recently. There was never a time in my life where someone told me directly, “Your voice is not important, it doesn’t matter, and it can’t change anything.” Yet, there were many times when I spoke up for myself and I was told I was confused, I was ignored, or I was laughed at. Indirectly, I was told my voice meant nothing. I would hope you haven’t been sent this message too, but if you have, I’m here to tell you it’s wrong. Your voice does matter and in fact, your voice is the future.
Unfortunately if you are in high school or even younger, you have probably heard some people saying that you shouldn’t be involved in policy reform. They can list off their reasons why, but it’s pointless because I know they’re incredibly wrong. You’re never too young to understand. You’re never too young to have a unique perspective to offer. You’re never too young to give your community and the world something it needs. You have something unique that we need and I hope someone has been encouraging you to share that. If you haven’t been offered that encouragement yet, then I hope you can find a little bit here. Here’s some links to other young activists during the March for Our Lives to inspire and empower you:
- Edna Chávez is a 17 year old student and activist who grew up in South Los Angeles, where she is all too familiar with the effects of gun violence. Listen to her call for policy makers to empower and support students through mentorship programs, mental health resources, and job opportunities.
- Naomi Wadler, a 11 year old fifth grader who helped organize a walkout at her elementary school, speaks for the African American girls and women who face gun violence, but go unnoticed. Hear her correct everyone who thinks she is too young to have an opinion or voice of her own.
- Zion Kelly is a 16 year old student activist whose family is proposing an amendments act to create safe passage zones to and from school for students. Listen to him share the story of his twin brother, how he lost him to gun violence, and his hopes for the future.
I love how differently, and yet similarly, they all spoke. Whether loud or soft-spoken, they share their speeches with a firm voice because they know they all have important stories and outlooks to bring to us. And so do you. This inspiration isn't just for anyone younger than these speakers too. I hope we can all feel encouraged and empowered by their voices! I know I am. If you’re wondering where to start using your voice here are some resources to give you ideas:
- Student Activism in School: Getting Your Voice Heard
- How to be an Activist When You're Unable to Attend Protests
As you’re using your voice to change the future, you’re not alone. I love the mix of people in these photos because it shows the support we can all offer to those around us and other communities. Even though it can be frustrating to feel unheard by some people with different views, know that we’re still here listening to each other. We’re here to support and stand alongside one another and you as you use your voice.
