Blog Center: Yes' Blog - Archived Entry

First of all, this trip has been amazing, and not even close to over. People here are inspiring—a passionate, diverse group of young people, willing to take responsibility for our country and empower its citizens. Although it’s not uncommon to be in a group of passionate people expressing concern for our country with a willingness to make change, it is rare to be in a group of people that are seriously doing something about it. The energy and momentum that comes from this empowered group is larger than the sum of its parts, and although this great opportunity often feels unique, I am humbly reminded that we are just a bunch of people willing to take some risks, make some sacrifices, and see what can happen when we make a collective effort to empower others. It’s grand yet grounding all at the same time.

A Call for Change:
On September 11th, 2001, terrorists killed my aunt Renee Newell. She worked for American Airlines and was on her way to Las Vegas, only to have her flight hijacked and crashed into the World Trade center that morning. I am still not sure what I was feeling that day, or what I was going through. In fact, this is the first time I have ever even written about it. What I am much more sure about is how I truly believe that the actions of the Bush Administration in response to 9-11 have disappointed me, my family, and much of our country. Bush’s lack of respect for the United Nations and the International community, his eagerness to embark upon this costly war(sending us spiraling into the nation’s largest deficit ever), and his lack of diplomatic skill have really left me feeling LESS safe living here in America, less proud of my government, and extremely worried about our future if this administration continues its controlling agenda.
[Check out www.peacefultomorrows.org for more info from other families who have lost a family member on 9-11, and whom advocate for peace.]