Courage of Conviction

A group of courageous young people from the Latino/a Youth Collective are currently holding a hunger strike as a way to call attention to the DREAM Act, which is being debated in Congress. The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act would make it possible for children of illegal aliens who were brought to this country as minors to be able to access available programs and supports which would help them further their education and have the chance to make a decent living for themselves and their families.
These young people are so hungry for the chance to fully develop themselves and become contributing members of their communities that they are willing to go without food to show their commitment. Whether you agree with the legislation or not, you have to admire the courage of conviction that these young people are demonstrating. It makes me think of other times in our country's history when young men and women have stood up for what is right and just: at the lunch counters in the 1950's and 1960's; when seeking the right to vote for women in the 1920's; in Europe and the Pacific in the 1940's. Different situations to be sure but all times when young people stepped up and faced adversity in order to show the values upon which this nation was established.
Young people have been agents of change and growth all throughout the history of our nation. It is that willingness of individuals to sacrifice themselves in order to achieve something that will benefit many that we admire and support. It seems to me that our communities need more people just like these young people and their peers. Doesn't it make sense to give them the chance to fully grow and develop?