In the early 1900s, the Suffragettes fought passionately for women’s voting rights. The 1930s were marked by the struggles of the Great Depression, while the 1950s and 60s saw the powerful Civil Rights protests. The 1970s were dominated by student-led demonstrations against the Vietnam War. The 1980s were defined by the Iran-Contra affair and the looming tensions of the Cold War. The 1990s witnessed the WTO riots, particularly prominent in the Northwest. Moving into the 2000s, we entered the longest war in U.S. history, the Iraq War, alongside significant movements like Occupy Wall Street.
As we approach the end of the second decade of the 21st century, history appears to be on repeat. The Black Lives Matter movement echoes the injustices of the past, now amplified by the immediacy of the internet and social media. Protesters have rallied against the Dakota Access Pipeline, which threatens sacred land and violates a treaty with the Great Sioux Nation from the 1850s. Notably, 11 million people across the globe participated in the women’s marches following the inauguration of our 45th president, a figure who has faced numerous allegations of sexual misconduct. Within his first week in office, he implemented executive orders limiting immigration from Muslim-majority countries and halted funding for several arts and nonprofit organizations, coupled with gag orders on federal employees.
Fear is palpable as many worry about the direction of their government and the potential repetition of past mistakes. However, we now stand apart from the past: we are more informed about our rights and our power to protest. We will not be silenced.
As parents, how can we equip our children with the knowledge of their First Amendment right to assemble, and instill in them the confidence to question injustice? This education extends beyond their own rights; it encompasses the rights of others. We must encourage them to be vocal advocates for those who cannot speak up for themselves and to reject the “it doesn’t affect me” mindset. It’s vital to foster an understanding that their privilege should be wielded for the greater good.
Leonardo da Vinci once said, “Nothing strengthens authority so much as silence.”
I was struck by a recent social media post from an acquaintance asserting that “Children should be in school, not protests.” This idea deeply offended me, as it implied that parents who support their children’s participation in protests are failing in their duties. Even more troubling was the shaming of young activists. This prompted me to reflect on how we have taught our daughter about standing up for her rights, and how these lessons can serve as invaluable tools.
Growing up, I was conditioned to adhere to a “Don’t speak unless spoken to” approach. I didn’t grasp my own beliefs or engage in advocacy until adulthood, having never participated in community service or causes that didn’t directly impact me. However, upon leaving home, I realized the world was far more complex, and I discovered the power of my voice.
From a young age, our daughter demonstrated her willingness to advocate for those mistreated due to racism or classism. Initially, she absorbed our conversations, but the significance of protests became clear during her first march on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We made it a point to discuss the real principles Dr. King fought for, beyond the sanitized version taught in schools. We chose to participate in a local march rather than a grand parade, helping her unlearn the exaggerated narratives often presented in educational settings.
It’s crucial to understand that “protest” encompasses more than public demonstrations. We must teach our children to stand up for their beliefs in everyday situations. Here are some ways we have guided our daughter to find her voice:
- If a teacher is treating a minority student unfairly, she should stand in solidarity with that student.
- If a community event conflicts with school, she can express her desire to attend and how she can contribute; we’ll support her in doing so.
- If she feels mistreated in public, she should seek help, make eye contact, and raise her voice if necessary.
- If she witnesses police or officials misusing their power, she should document it, call for assistance, and remain calm while supporting the victim.
- If someone is being sexist or inappropriate, she should assert herself and not allow such behavior to go unchallenged.
- If her school presents distorted historical narratives, she should respectfully question them and strive to educate her peers.
- If she feels anger about global issues, she should channel that emotion into research and organized action rather than impulsivity.
- If she encounters homelessness or animal cruelty, she should find ways to help immediately, such as volunteering or providing basic necessities.
These lessons were what I wished I had received as a child. They would have empowered me to understand my identity and purpose earlier in life. While they address immediate injustices, they also cultivate a deeper understanding of humanity and the potential for change that lies within each of us.
In response to those who believe children should remain in school rather than participate in protests, I argue that the world itself is the best educator. In school, my child learned math, geography, biology, and a skewed version of history. Conversely, through involvement in protests and social justice movements, she learned compassion, resilience, and the importance of rights—human, animal, and more.
As parents, we have the responsibility to equip our children with the lessons they need to confront injustices head-on. My hope for every parent is to provide unwavering support as their children navigate their identities and fight for their beliefs, even if those beliefs differ from their own.
Moreover, I encourage you to utilize the events unfolding in our world as a guide for your parenting, fostering a deep sense of compassion that is often hard to find. For additional insights into navigating the journey of home insemination, check out this resource. Also, for guidance on pregnancy and home insemination, this excellent resource can be very helpful.
In summary, empowering our children to stand up for themselves and others is essential. By teaching them the importance of advocacy and the value of their voice, we prepare them to navigate the complexities of the world while fostering a spirit of compassion and justice.