Welcome to KidsRise!
About a month ago, I reached out to my community and invited kids between the ages of 10 to 17 to an open studio. I asked them to come with a message about their concerns and hopes to share with the world. I wanted kids to understand the power of their voice and their vote. I also wanted to remind them that they don't need to wait until they are 18 to vote - they vote every single day with their choices and actions.
Regarding their messages, I made only one request: no hate. I asked them to create statements that were proactive, that kids all over the country could hear, without labeling themselves or others.
And they came. Over 100 kids stopped by to share their thoughts. Parents and guardians were not allowed on the set - this was a place for kids only (with a little help from KidsRise volunteers) to identify their concerns and communicate them to the world through a sign and a photograph.
I hope to visit and photograph kids from all corners of our country. I want to communicate their stories and connect them using photography as a vehicle. I want to help them understand each other. I also need to understand the voices of the many kids that are not being heard.
Future Voters, keep checking in with KidsRise and drop by future open studios in your state. Come say hi and share your voice with the world. I look forward to meeting all of you.
Warmly,
Smeeta