Dear Youth of Today,
I am a white, cis-gender female born into a lower middle class family in Oregon and born into unearned privilege. I acknowledge that I will never know what it is like to be you. My beliefs and my viewpoints come from my experiences in life whether growing up as a youth in a mostly white neighborhood, an emerging adult trying to figure out the world, a woman, a sister, a daughter, a wife, a mother, a teacher, or a friend struggling to find a balance. Along the way, I’ve learned a few things; most of all, I’ve learned that there’s still a lot more to learn.
One thing I have learned is that you are important. I value you as a future leader of society. I know that someday, you will be in charge of the world. Because of this, I need you to know how vital you are. You matter. Be kind to yourself. Allow yourself grace. Allow yourself to fail. Pick yourself back up and try again. Be supportive of yourself. Do not expect to be perfect. Life is messy and often chaotic, but if you keep pushing forward, you will accomplish wonderful feats.
You also need to know that your voice is important. Use it as you need to use it. If you need to be loud, be loud. If you need to sing, find your melody. If you need to whisper, be powerful. Do not let others around you silence you. Use your voice to speak your truth. Do your best to stand up to outside toxic voices. But also know that even if you are not a loud person, you still have the ability to be impactful. There are different ways in which to use your voice for change. Support those who need your support. Cheer people on when they are struggling. If you’re not leading the protest, be a part of it. Sometimes, we are the only voice in the room and sometimes we are one of many, but what matters is that your voice is there. Some of my quietest students have had the most profound ideas and the most thoughtful thinking. I get goosebumps thinking about the things that I have read and conversations I have had with students who never raise their hands, in class. It may take time, but please know, your voice is worthy of being heard.
Find your allies, those people who support you and uplift you. This can be difficult. In a world where you do not always feel like you fit in, finding an ally can seem daunting. They’re out there. To be truthful, you will probably have to teach some of your closest friends about how to be an ally. It takes work. Be honest with those who want to support you. Let them know when they’re wrong and help them to grow. But you cannot do it all on your own. Find people who will stick with you even when it gets tough. Find people who, despite not having the answers, will be there for you when you need someone to talk with.
And finally, my favorite piece of advice comes from my mom. She is my role model and one of my heroes in life. From a young age, she has told me to “be strong and brave.” As a woman, my voice is not always valued, and when this happens, I remember my mom’s words. And I get louder. I know that what I have to say is important. That despite what society may tell me, I am of value.
I do not pretend to have all the answers. But I know that in my core beliefs are this: you are important, your voice is important, you do not have to be alone, and if nothing else, be strong and brave.
Be Well,
Mrs. Beth Morgan
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