Youth Voice

Youth voice is defined as “the active, distinct, and concentrated ways young people represent themselves throughout society.” (Fletcher, Washington Youth VoicenHandbook, 2007). Young people have unique, critical perspectives of the world we live in and the ability to creatively think of solutions. While society and media cast youth as works in progress, we know that youth are powerful catalysts of change as we have seen in youth-led movements addressing climate change, gun violence, and civil rights.

UpRISE is powered by a Youth Action Board and local coalitions across Colorado. Members engage in youth-driven, community change by identifying root causes of nicotine use among youth in communities, researching solutions, and meeting with decision-makers to advocate for change. UpRISE recognizes the power of young people and amplifies their voices.

It feels like people are actually taking us seriously. Taking our youth voice into consideration.

YAB Member

Youth

We all have an actual say in what we are trying to get across and what we want to do. Where in all the other groups were like, do whatever you want to do.

YAB Member

Youth