There are currently 1.8 billion young people between the ages of 10 and 24 in the world, and we want to celebrate all of them! ArtReach works for, with, and because of youth, and we wouldn’t be here without them!
This year, the theme of International Youth Day is “youth building peace”, and this day is dedicated to celebrating young people’s contributions to conflict prevention and sustainable peace. The youth ArtReach are privileged to work with are leaders in the fight for social justice, equity, and reconciliation, and we could not be more proud to support their work. They labour tirelessly to combat the physical, social, and economic injustices that threaten the rights and freedoms of youth globally. Today we acknowledge and appreciate their effort, bravery, and dedication in the fight for peace.
The United Nations notes that “young people’s inclusion in the peace and security agenda and in society more broadly, is key to building and sustaining peace. The process of social inclusion for youth, including participation in decision-making as well as access to quality education, health care and basic services promotes their role as active contributors to society and affords young people with opportunities to reach their potential and achieve their goals. When youth are excluded from political, economic and social spheres and processes, it can be a risk factor for conflict. Therefore, identifying and addressing the social exclusion of young people is a precondition for sustaining peace.” Read more from the United Nations about International Youth Day here.