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Make SILENCE history!
Reasons we should be listened to.
There used to be a saying that ‘young people should be seen and not heard’ and what a load of rubbish it was too!
We are young adults with skills, ideas and minds of our own. We have opinions on how our schools should run and even on how the world should run and we have a right to be heard.
Some reasons we should be listened to:
- It’s the law! Ireland signed up to the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child, which states that children (what they call under 18s) have the right to be heard on issues that affect them.
- It makes sense when decisions are being made that affect us (about alcohol, drugs, facilities etc.) that we should have our say. The chances are, if we’re listened to, we’ll have better ideas than most of the ‘experts’.
- We are people too! We have to use public transport, buy stuff (and pay taxes on it!!) and use the education and health systems just like anyone else. Why shouldn’t we have the right to have a say on how those things are organised and planned?
- We have the power! Well not yet, but soon. In a few years, our generation will take over the running of the world (ermm…sounds cool!) and we’ll be making decisions that affect our parents, teachers and politicians. I’m sure they’d like it if we listened to their views!!!
Ways to have your say
- Get involved a Student Council, Dáil Na nÓg, the Union of Secondary School Students or the Donegal Youth Council if you live in Co. Donegal.
- Join the youth section of a political party that represents your views or an environmental, community or human rights organisation such as Eco-Unesco or Amnesty. Or you could start your own group!
- Contact the HSE (Health Service Executive) and ask them if they involve young people in their service and if not, why not?
- Write letters to politicians (local councillors, senators, TDs, MEPS) and tell them what’s on your mind. You can also visit their ‘clinic’, bring a petition with you or even your whole support group!
- Write letters to the papers and call in to local radio and express yourself. You’ll be surprised at how many people will hear your view!
Tips for getting heard
- Be confident. You know what you want.
- Gather support from friends and family.
- Make a plan of action and stick to it.
- Know your facts and figures!
- Be persistent and don’t give up.
Thanks to The Guide.
