Build community
Build community.
Whatever you are doing, raising awareness, advocating for a cause, fundraising for a nonprofit, speaking out against injustice, all of this is much stronger done with a community of people. The exchange of ideas, the ability to have courageous conversations across lines of differences,to form learning groups, to share tasks, and to have support from like minded individuals, will help make impactful change.
Action:
Be sure to research and join with other groups doing similar work, for collective power. It is critical that you include the voices and energy of those actually impacted by the issue and potential change. Listen and learn from those who have been affected by your issue, and make sure that they are leading the way. Reach out especially to other youth groups doing this work, and share ideas.
Learn the power sources that affect the issue, and use them as your allies if possible.
Take the time to work with administrators to get them to understand your concerns and points for change. Gain support of those in recognized power, knowing that you have power yourself. This might be school administrators, or elected officials. If you get pushback for what you want to do, ask what would work.
Do a community assessment. Is this what your community wants? If not, how do you rework your ideas to be relevant, and build a movement?
Form learning groups around the issues, making sure that all voices are recognized.
Write letters to local administrators, school officials, local and federal legislators. Outline your ideas in writing, request a follow up meeting, then keep them informed of your efforts.
Resources:
Generation Citizen Community Assets https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xfTRbxVHy9xR38tI2ty5pTj-DEgp7-4Q/view
Ben Marion Institute for Social Justice