BE THE CHANGE
Youth Activism
Steps The Growing Peace Project youth activists take to effect positive social change:
1 - Identify issues that are important to them in their respective communities across the United States
2 - Collaborate, research, discuss, and think deeply about these issues
3 - Develop action plans to address these community issues, gather resources, and enlist support
4 - DO IT!
5 - Attend Vermont summer activism retreat where they reflect on lessons learned, adjust action plans, take the next step
“It is one of the most life-changing things I’ve ever done.”
“My experience was awesome and BEAutiful!”
“Really fun and inspiring!”
“I learned that I am stronger than I think I am, and that I can be who I truly need to be, no matter what happens. I also want to thank you for inspiring me to be who I am. I want to help people, I want to be someone that people can look up to, and see they can get through what they are going through, and to persevere. So, Thank you for everything, because it changed me for the good!”
TGPP Youth Are Doing Big Things! They…
Initiated a letter campaign to local legislators, calling on them to address gun violence
Got free menstrual products in middle school bathrooms
Acted as a resource person for younger LGBTQIA+ youth
Created IG and designed / sold t-shirts to raise awareness about suicide prevention, and support nonprofits doing social justice work
Led peace activities and created a peace quilt with younger students
Organized a meal packaging program through Rise Against Hunger
Researched disaster-relief volunteer opportunities, and planned a service trip
Raised awareness through an anti-bullying day, and created a safe space at school
Started an urban roof-top school garden
Organized food drives
Worked with younger students on conflict resolution and self esteem
Initiated drug and alcohol awareness days at school
Developed a poster campaign to highlight community issues, such as: teen suicide, racism, bullying, gun violence in schools, drug addiction
Completed carbon footprint projects
Designed peace games to travel with us as we work with other schools
Designed and distributed immigration rights brochures and Instagram
Met with law enforcement to discuss racial profiling
Raised awareness about LGBTQIA+ rights
And more…
“By the end of the day I was at ease, and I could see it with my students. I liked how the activities built on each other to help us see and feel the power of working together to improve something”
“This is a valuable experience because you get to help people that need it.”
Young activists planning, playing, scheming, learning new skills, discussing, creating, collaborating, sharing, volunteering, helping …
…growing more peace and justice in the world
“I learn[ed] new ways on how to look at the world. You see things in a different way that will help you”