Hi!
My name is Stephanie Gonzalez. I am 17 years old and a junior in high school. I am undocumented. Let me know what I can do to help support our cause! (:

Hello Stephanie thank you for your email [:.
Stephanie, as a junior in high school you should educate yourself on the resources available to undocumented youth in your state like: college application process, scholarships available to you, internships, organizations and more. Also, become aware of bills and laws in your state. All of the things you learn and find out along the way are bits of information that other students do not possess. You need to share it with them and school staff as well as your community.
Why?
Because you’ll need to learn before you can teach and organize others. I suggest starting a club to provide a safe space for youth to express their concerns while receiving support and understanding. This club will help others understand by spreading awareness, students will recognize they are not alone and hopefully join the fight. Don’t be afraid to “come out” in school because there are thousands of students who are in the same situation. The first time it might be intimidating but after you do it you’ll feel liberated. I feels great when someone comes up to you and tells you they are undocumented too. Don’t forget to sign and share any petition, news update and important blog posts that are circulating. We’ll be here to share resources with you and be there for whatever you need, just ask. [:

Please organize your community because we need to spread the word and make change!
If we don’t take the initiative, who will?

Email or fill out this form with any questions, concerns, comments or just your own story. This is a space to let it all out! You don’t have bottled it up inside. Whatever you write is up to you and you will not be judged. Your stories and worries matter! You are not alone. Remember, the insecurities and fears you have, someone else is them having too! Don’t be afraid to speak out!

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The views expressed by the author on this post do not necessarily reflect the views of the New York State Youth Leadership Council (NYSYLC)