Student advocacy gives rise to conversation

With an increase in student activism at Park, senior Anna Overall said the collective efforts of students have far-reaching impacts. 

“The youth definitely are starting to realize that we play a very important role in society. Older people sometimes tend to shut out youth, but the more that you branch (out) together and the more you start to work together, that definitely makes a really big impact,” Overall said. 

According to writing tutor Addie Welch, students taking the lead in advocacy not only strengthens students themselves, but also builds a sense of greater community and connection within Park. 

“Seeing students advocate for themselves by building community with other students, talking about their experiences and finding similarities between their stories is an important way (to advocate),” Welch said. “You’re advocating for yourself by understanding your own story, but also receiving and giving support to other students in a way that can strengthen someone.”

Freshman Alicia Mainjeni, who is involved in multiple advocacy clubs including Girls United and Students Organized Against Racism (SOAR), said student-run events and groups inspire discussion and action among people. 

“It helps people have an idea of what their goals are and pin-pointing what they believe in. It gives them a chance to talk about things in a setting where other people are either passionate about, or want to be more passionate about issues,” Mainjeni said. “Joining clubs that help advocate for these things … are what makes a difference.”

The actions that students are pushing for cannot be met without collaboration and communication from all levels, according to Spanish teacher Hanna Anderson. 

“Change has to come both from the top and the bottom. Teachers and staff have to support, (and) have to promote advocacy change,” Anderson said. “But in the end, it’s students who have to make it happen. We need that collaboration between teachers, administrators, staff and students who, ultimately, are the ones who are going to bring change.” 

For Welch, the insight that students bring into situations makes them a powerful voice in the conversation.  

“It’s a lifelong journey learning how to stand up for yourself and for other people, and what you believe is right — young people, in particular, can be really strong advocates because they often have a unique perspective on the world and are less likely to go along with the dominant culture which can be oppressive,” Welch said. “Young people are not being indoctrinated into that so easily.”