Last week’s Juneteenth and Pride celebrations left us feeling fired up about what freedom means to us in this day and age. We’re all about learning from the past to inspire the future, so we’re reflecting on what freedom has meant for generations past. With every social justice wave, the concept of freedom takes on a new flavor, and these changemakers each had their own way of working toward a more free society:
This blast from the past is a reminder that fighting for freedom takes on many forms, and meeting the moment looks different from person to person.
So, how will you do to progress freedom?
Let’s Do This!
DoSomething |
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You all had us in our feels with your Notes app sonnets on freedom. These were some of our favorite Notes on Freedom submissions: |
“My note is for the people of America,” said DoSomething member Jakira H., 19. “Reflecting on freedom is important to me because my ancestors went through hardship in order to obtain freedom and liberation. I feel as a society we need to be united rather than against one another in this harsh world. We all are facing some of the same life difficulties as humans. We should be able to look past skin color, gender, etc. in order to be united as one no matter beliefs, opinions, or values. Equality is essential.”
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DoSomething member Tamira H., 17 said, “This note is for all the innocent youth who were robbed of their freedom, voices, and lives. We nod to those whose stories must be shared, whose names echo in the realms of despair. Reflecting on freedom is vital to me, for it unveils the essence of what it means to be free. It allows me to cherish the rights I possess, to understand the struggles that brought us to success. It reminds me of the battles fought in the past, the sacrifices made, the ideals that would last. Reflecting on freedom brings gratitude anew, for the opportunities it grants, both old and new.”
Now go add yours to the mix! |
Going for the gold…last week, American Gymnast & Olympic Gold Medalist, Laurie Hernandez, was announced as UNICEF’s newest ambassador. Laurie is joining an elite group of individuals (think: Selena Gomez, P!NK, Sofia Carson and Jermey Lin!) committed to advocating for children’s rights. Congrats, Laurie. You go girl!
ICYMI… In the year since Roe v. Wade was overturned, many states are enacting abortion bans, each with its own specific rules. Stay up to date with this interactive tracker. In climate news… A group of young environmentalists are taking on big oil in a historic lawsuit in Montana. Listen to the deets here. Our heroes today are… Two teenage Black girls present new proof they worked on for the Pythagorean theorem. It shows how resilient these two young women are in order to create significant achievements and contributions!
Kudos to… students Audrey Wang and Jose Caballero! This past April, they were awarded the Jed Foundation’s 16th Annual Student Voice of Mental Health Award for their influential mental health and suicide prevention work in school, community, and digital spaces. Hats off to
them! |
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FastWeb Scholarships & Internships for LGBTQIA+ Students and Allies! |
CollegeXpress
We ❤️ summer! From thrilling outdoor adventures, beach bonfires, and afternoons by the pool, summer is the *chef’s kiss* best season. But just because school’s out for summer, doesn’t mean we stop thinking about scholarships! Our friends at CollegeXpress are giving YOU the opportunity to earn a $1,000 scholarship, and all you have to do is answer one question!. Complete a free profile on CollegeXpress and share your response to the following: What are you most excited to do this summer?
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