Our hearts are broken over the recent news in Highland Park, Illinois, and we grieve for the victims, families, and anyone impacted by gun violence. We know that news like this feels more and more frequent. In light of everything, remember that you have power. Your voice and actions can serve as a catalyst for change, taking steps to claim our democracy and heal our nation. During these times, remember to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Visit our diverse mental
health resource hub and our gun violence page to learn more and share resources with your loved ones.
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Happy Tuesday, y’all In a recent pulse survey, 57% of you told us that racial equality has become an important issue to you in the past year. And 90% of you took action in 2020 to advance racial justice. To that, we say, “Heck yea!!”
But the work doesn't stop there. On the heels of the Fourth of July, a holiday that we know was not built with the perspectives of Black people in mind, we can’t help but think, “Okay, so what comes next?!” Last month, we commemorated Juneteenth–a day that signified the freedom of enslaved people in 1865. However, we also know that the news of this freedom arrived in Black communities nearly TWO years after the abolition of slavery. The ongoing fight for racial justice and equity continued through the Civil Rights Movement and still remains a social issue today. It is up to us to work together to build a democracy that is truly diverse and representative of all.
There is still time to join in on teaching and learning from others on how to build inclusive and representative communities! Our program, Free-ish: Why We Commemorate Juneteenth provides you resources to learn more about racial justice and equity. In turn, we’ll share what you’re doing to make your community more inclusive in our Racial Justice + Equity Guide later in 2022!
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Let's Do This! DoSomething |
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These DoSomething members are walking the walk! Check out what they are doing to build more inclusive communities, especially for people who identify as Black or African American.
DoSomething member Agustina G., 17 said, “In order to create a safe social environment for everyone in my community, I am committed to not only educate myself on the issues faced by the Black and African American community, but to also educate the people around me. Every time someone I know says something rooted in racism or colorism, I bring it to their attention so they can learn and become a responsible and respectful citizen. I believe everyone plays a part in terms of making an inclusive community, but first, we must address the obstacles limiting equity and inclusion among the people that tend to be around us the most.”
“I am trying to make my community more inclusive to Black and African American people by educating myself on systemic and cultural racism. The more white people are aware of their racism and the racism of the world around them, the more we can do to fight it and use our privilege to help stop this inequity. Of course, there is much more I need to do but educating and unlearning is the first step to making change.” said DoSomething member Briar K., 14.
“I have been educating myself on my privilege and the racial inequity that Black Americans face in America,” said DoSomething member Dawson D., 17. “Moreover, I've been talking with my friends and family, sharing the facts and stories of Black Americans facing racial injustice. Through this, I've helped many of my friends, and people that I interact with, become more inclusive.” Join Agustina, Briar, and Dawson today and build more equitable and inclusive communities! |
Every vote matters…Have you checked out our latest program, The Future Is Now: Your Voice, Your Vote? We’re equipping YOU with the tools to be an engaged voter. Take our short quiz to find out your civic leadership personality. And then register to vote!
ICYMI…Simone Biles and Megan Rapinoe are among the seventeen individuals who will receive the Medal of Freedom from President Biden this week–the nation’s highest civilian honor! Also, receiving a medal? Sandra Lindsay, the NYC nurse who was the first person in the US to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Talk about girl power!
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CollegeXpress
Our friends at CollegeXpress are giving away a $1,000 scholarship through July 31, 2022, and it’s magical! Complete a free profile on CollegeXpress and answer one question to be entered: What's your favorite Disney movie? |
American’s Promise Alliance
Just launched, the 2022 Serve This Summer Challenge will help put funds directly into the hands of young people (like yourself!), who want to make a difference in their community. Select an issue you’re passionate about, brainstorm how you can make a difference, and submit your idea for the opportunity to earn a $300 grant. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Apply today!
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