We Are All Connected—The Hurt of One Is the Hurt of Us All
By Charlene, Member, Young Women of Color Leadership Council, Advocates for Youth
I am originally from Monrovia, Liberia, in West Africa, and I am 23! I recently graduated from Oregon State University with a bachelor of science in health promotion and education (with a concentration in community health). I am in the process of applying to Oregon State University where I want to obtain a masters degree in public health and social work.
In middle school I entered an essay contest, sponsored by the National Association of Minority Medical Educators. To select a health area affecting minorities, I researched various ailments and selected HIV and AIDS because of its effect on minorities both nationally and internationally. And my interest grew. As time progressed; I stayed attuned to the HIV and AIDS epidemic, especially as it affected minority women in the United States and women in Africa and globally. In addition, I was personally affected when I lost an aunt to AIDS, and when the 14-year-old sister of one of my closest friend was diagnosed with AIDS.
As a young African woman, I feel compelled to be a leader in raising awareness and advocating for those who are and have been affected by this epidemic. For two years, I worked as a harm reduction outreach worker, and my experiences affirmed my belief and passion about being at the forefront of this epidemic. I have dedicated my life to disease prevention, especially HIV and AIDS. I want to be a leader in the U.S. public health field, to make impact nationally and internationally. I have taken steps to have my voice heard: I am a member of local and state HIV Community Planning Groups, and I joined the Young Women of Color Leadership Council. I want to educate my peers—regardless of race/ethnicity and socio-economic status. I strive to educate myself, my friends, my family, and everyone I meet, raising awareness about the epidemic.
WE ARE ALL CONNECTED. THE HURT OF ONE IS THE HURT OF US ALL. We need to empower ourselves and each other. We need to take charge and become decision makers and educated consumers and citizens. Our future, the legacy of our ancestors, and the future of our children and of generations to come are all at stake: We have the most to lose if we sit back and let others fight this battle.
VIEW
STORIES FROM MORE YOUTH ACTIVISTS >>
ARE YOU A YOUTH ACTIVIST? CLICK HERE TO SHARE YOUR STORY >>
 Send this page to a friend >>
|
