About
Minnesota Teen Activists emerged in May 2020, from the passion and commitment of freshmans, sophomores and juniors in high school. Our journey began in response to various injustices within schools across Minnesota. These injustices encompassed issues such as racism, homophobia, and sexual assault, both within local schools and throughout the state of Minnesota.
Refusing to accept the lack of accountability and justice from school administrations, we, the students took a bold step forward to advocate for human rights and dignity. Rapidly evolving into a prominent youth-led organization in the Twin Cities area, MNTA expanded its reach to include members from all corners of the state. As Minneapolis and neighboring communities grappled with tragic events, including the deaths of George Floyd, Daunte Wright, and Amir Locke, MNTA responded on the front lines, offering support during civil unrest and distress that affected thousands of community members. While championing justice and peace in communities, MNTA maintained a dual focus, working tirelessly towards a more just society both within and outside the classroom. Three years later members of MN Teen Activists officially established Global Teen Activists May 2023, a 501c4 nonprofit organization, to further their advocacy within communities. Serving as the advocacy wing of their organization, Global Teen Activists is dedicated to pursuing systemic change through existing institutions. Donations to Global Teen Activists contribute directly to their primary advocacy funding.
Today, the organizations impact resonated locally and internationally, with members engaging in conferences and events nationwide and collaborating with various entities to achieve their goals. Both organizations remain steadfast in their commitment to empowering and amplifying the voices of young people in the fight against systemic injustices. Emerging from the passion and dedication of sophomores and juniors in high school, MN Teen Activists crafted their mission statement to eradicate systemic injustices in schools throughout the state, addressing issues spanning education, economic disparities, infrastructure challenges, and various social, sexual, and religious concerns. While proudly standing for justice, MN Teen Activists maintains a non-partisan stance, transcending political affiliations to address systemic injustices inclusively. Following the tragic death of George Floyd, their mission expanded, prompting active involvement on the frontlines, collaboration with local legislators, and serving as a valuable resource not only in schools but also to communities in crisis.
At Minnesota Teen Activists, the belief in the power of collective action and the potential for positive change is foundational. Join them on their journey as they tirelessly work towards creating a more just and equitable future for schools across Minnesota and beyond. Together, collective efforts can make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by systemic injustices.
"Youth are more than the future, we are the now. Young people aren't content with the small opportunities, they are demand a seat at the table. Global Teen Activists aims to amplify that at the highest level."
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Jerome Richardson, Executive Director
Our Mission
Global Teen Activists is a 501c4 youth-led organization committed to eradicating systemic injustices in schools and communities through advocacy and action. Grounded in our core values of revitalization, equity, and advocacy, we strive to create a more just and equitable society for all.
Our Core Principals
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Revitalization: We uphold the principle of revitalization, which entails reinvesting our time, energy, and resources into our communities. We recognize that revitalization is a crucial component of our mission to effect meaningful change and contribute to the betterment of society.
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Advocacy: We are committed to advocacy, which involves the amplification of the voices of youth and the community, as well as the pursuit of social justice and human rights. We firmly stand in solidarity with marginalized groups and individuals and will actively work to dismantle systems of oppression and discrimination.
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Equity: We believe in equity within schools and our community at large. We recognize that achieving equity requires an intentional and sustained effort to identify and address the structural and systemic barriers that prevent individuals from realizing their full