A look at the colonialist and racist roots of the words we use to describe young people – and why that needs to change

At risk. Thugs. Illegals. There are many harmful words that people in power often use to describe communities – especially poor youth of color – around the world. 

Today, young leaders around the world are leading a campaign to build awareness and change those linguistic behaviors.

Watch this slide show for visual highlights of the NH Program's work over the past year, with "Rise as One" by Aaron Fowler in the background.

“We want them to learn the process for themselves and see: I planted this seed, I watched this grow, I grew that plant, I grew my food,” said Brunisha Jones, a member of AFSC’s New Orleans Peace by Piece program. Showing young people how food is grown, where it comes from, and getting them excited about fresh vegetables are key components that make the New Orleans Hollygrove garden project thrive.

Nia Eubanks-Dixon is the youth program officer for AFSC's international and U.S. programs. 

Ali previously served as AFSC’s Gaza Program Coordinator. Ali is a social activist, volunteering with a variety of groups and campaigns. He has worked with a variety of local and international organizations in Palestine on social and economic development programs and leading advocacy campaigns. Ali holds a Bachelor's Degree in Information Systems.

Note: Palestinians in Gaza have been protesting nonviolently weekly at the border fence adjacent to Israel since March 30th, 2018. Their demands are to end the brutal siege of Gaza and for the refugees to be able to return to their lands from which they were expelled in 1948.  Two of every three people in Gaza are registered refugees.