Youth Voices: Civic Engagement, Rights, and the Wellbeing of Children

Publication Title

Seattle Journal for Social Justice

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Winter 2025

Abstract

The regulatory framework in the United States provides young people with few opportunities for meaningful participation in decisions that shape our country now and in the future. Yet, despite being marginalized or overlooked in formal institutions and official processes, youth today are demonstrating the importance of their insights and power. On critical issues such as climate change, immigration, racial justice, and gun violence, youth in the United States are leading efforts to foster positive change in their communities. The lived experience of children and youth offers vital expertise that can inform and improve law and policy responses to the many challenges that all communities confront. This article -- coauthored by a children's rights scholar and three young advocates -- explores ideas for partnering with youth, serving as an ally to youth, creating space to elevate youth voice.

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Recommended Citation

Jonathan Todres, Folashade Epebinu, Chelsea Osei & Gabrielle Listana, Youth Voice: Civic Engagement, Rights, and the Wellbeing of Children, 23 Seattle J. for Soc. Just. 107 (Winter 2025).

Volume

23

Issue

2

First Page

107

Last Page

116

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