Sara A.

If you’re reading this, use your voice

I want you to know that your voice matters. It carries the weight of your story, your experiences, and your truth; when shared, it can spark change, inspire others, and uplift entire communities. Advocacy is more than just standing up for what’s right; it’s about using your voice to help others find theirs, amplifying the voices that are often silenced or overlooked, and creating spaces where everyone’s experiences are valued and heard.

When I first became involved with Every Campus A Refuge (ECAR), I didn’t know the full extent of what my advocacy could mean. I was just a student trying to make a difference for refugee families, but what I didn’t realize was how much my voice, however small it felt, could help those who needed it most. Through my work with ECAR, I’ve come to understand that advocacy is not just about what you say, but about showing up for others, even when the path forward feels unclear. It’s about reaching out, extending a hand, and saying, “You are not alone. Your struggle matters.”

I’ve also seen how powerful it is to create space for others to speak their truth. When I think of the work I’ve done with the Arab American Institute, I remember how important it was for me to speak out, and how meaningful it was for others, particularly those whose experiences were overlooked or misunderstood, to finally have a platform. There’s something transformative about being heard, especially when it comes from a place of understanding and empathy. And, at the same time, I’ve learned that advocacy isn’t just about amplifying my own voice; it’s about elevating those around me, especially those who have been marginalized, unheard, or erased.

I’ve also learned that it’s not always easy to speak out. It can be scary, intimidating, and sometimes, it feels like your voice doesn’t matter. But in those moments, it’s essential to remember that your words carry weight, not only in the fight for justice but also in the daily lives of the people who are watching, listening, and learning from your actions. In my own journey, I’ve had to remind myself that even when I don’t have all the answers, my commitment to standing up for what’s right and using my voice to speak for those who can’t is enough.
Advocacy isn’t always about grand gestures. Sometimes it’s a conversation, a letter, or even a quiet moment of solidarity. Sometimes it’s simply reminding someone that they are worthy of dignity, that their struggles are seen, and that they deserve a world where they can thrive. As I continue my own path in public policy and law, I carry with me the belief that advocacy is about creating space for all voices to be heard and recognized.

In a world that often feels divided, we have the power to create change. We can do this together. By lifting each other up, standing in solidarity, and pushing for a future where empathy and connection take precedence, we can build a more just and compassionate society. And it all begins with one simple act: speaking up and making sure that everyone else has the chance to do the same.
With all my support and hope for the future,

Sara A., Clemson University

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