HANDS OFF OUR BODIES, FUERA OPERATION LONE STAR, and PEOPLE OVER PROFITS were just a few of the chants attendees at our Virtual Round Up Rally on August 6th typed in the game chat of our Roblox Capitol replica. With the help of local organizations, Bloom RGV, Texas Rising, South Texas Reproductive Justice, just to name a few, we were able to host over a dozen participants on our Roblox map our team created, and bring awareness to the issues that matter most to us–the youth! One thing about us, we stand on business. Can't make it to the Capitol protest? We got you–we'll bring the Capitol protest to you!
Earlier this month, we demonstrated how youth voices are transcending traditional activism and taking change into their own hands, and combating hate and division with community care as a form of resistance. We are creating safe spaces to build community and power in the most ‘untraditional' of ways: book clubs, tattoo mutual aid fundraisers, and youth Capitol takeovers (what's a Capitol takeover without a drag show) — the fire within RGV youth and young trailblazers burns for change. And that's on period!
Before we delved into our virtual Rally, our civic engagement team shared updates on bills they have been tracking–all of which are pressing issues impacting youth today. Following the recent rollback on DEI protections in universities, the decision to increase the role of religion in schools with the posting of the 10 Commandments, and the continued attacks on LGBTQIA+ youth, we are witnessing years of advocacy work and legal precedent thrown out the window of reason. It's giving, 1700s.
Just last month, Gov. Abbott deprived thousands of Dreamers and undocumented students in Texas of the opportunity to pursue higher education by reversing a long-standing court decision, the Texas Dream Act, which protects the right to education for all students regardless of their status. Universities and colleges in Texas are now forced to ask students to prove their lawful presence in the state to be eligible for in-state tuition. Texas students should not have to put their dreams on hold and bear the financial burden of not being able to afford out-of-state tuition costs. That is why, in response, LUPE filed a lawsuit to protect the Texas Dream Act and Texas students.
At LUPE, we respond to the urgent needs of all our community members, regardless of age. From providing programs like LUPE Youth to guidance on college access resources, it is time that youth voices are heard. We hope to inspire current and future generations to stay informed and get involved in our government's decision-making process- no matter how intimidating it may seem. ‘Cause comp@s, there are much scarier things: bans on abortion, voter suppression, cuts to financial aid, and the list goes on.
The decisions Congress makes today will have an impact on the world of tomorrow. We are the leaders of tomorrow, and it is up to us to build the future we want to live in. Change starts today, join our movimiento and learn more ways you can get involved by visiting www.lupenet.org/movimiento.
