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I've been reading article after article, hearing story after story, and in all the plight of gender and sexuality in regards to inequality has been illustrated quite plainly. It makes me want to scream that so many women and queer people across the globe can't get the rights they deserve, or the safety they need, or even the knowledge of their own bodies that I have. My question is, what can I do?
If you had to pick one or ten organizations that help oppressed women or queer people (or both) to donate money or time to- provided 15 year olds can volunteer, if time is the only thing that I can give to that particular one- which would you pick?
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Hi Violet I think it's awesome that you've been thinking about volunteering and helping out in organizations you feel passionate about! It's a bit difficult to name just one but sometimes it can be good to start close to home. Are you aware of your local organisations such as women's refuges, domestic violence shelters, and queer youth centres? Do you have a queer straight alliance at your school? Giving those places a call and asking how you can help is a great start.
Some of my favourite international organizations include Amnesty international and The Girl Effect (they have some cool videos on their website). I hope you never feel that you are too young to make a difference. I think that people of all ages can be activists in their own way. Whether it's letter writing, poster/banner making, going to marches/rallies or even supporting a classmate or friend in an abusive relationship or with coming out, there's always something we can do.
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