"Speaking up. Our voices are the most important things we have, and people don’t use them enough. Calling out injustice, protesting, and conversing about what’s going on in the world is so important to educate others, make sure everyone is equally represented in our communities, and promote love over hate. Politics divide people and create hatred, but if we just speak to each other, we realize that despite political differences we are all human and all of us deserve a chance to be heard and listened to.

There are definitely moments where I didn't speak up or get involved, but that changed about a year ago. Once you stand up, you can't really go back to being silent. I regret not getting involved in politics sooner, or following elections closely before the one in 2016. They give you an opportunity to meet such unique and interesting people who are driven by the common goal of change. I have made some very close friends campaigning, canvassing, and protesting. That community is one that is so open-minded, caring and motivated. Going up there and letting your voice be heard is one of the most powerful feelings. Moumita Ahmed is the first person who I contacted when I wanted to get involved, she is the co-founder of People for Bernie and Millennials for Bernie, and her voice as an activist completely guided the kind of person I want to be.

Moumita is someone who inspired from the day I met her because she is energetic, completely devoted to what she does and willing to teach me everything she knows. Working with her has been the greatest experience I've had, and has given me a lot of hope for the field of activism. I've organized a march with her in New York, traveled to South Carolina and New Hampshire to canvas and report the election, and continue to organize online with her every day. She's taught me everything I know about organizing, and is the reason I do what I do."