With the changing times, it is understandable to feel afraid and uncertain of the future that will come. Furthermore, we as the new upcoming adult generation have stuck to the rules taught to us by others to be a good citizen in our community. However, this also brings up the question of knowing our rights as we prepare to enter the world as young adults. Knowing your rights as a student and a young citizen is crucial for protecting yourself and becoming an informed and empowered individual. Here’s a breakdown of some fundamental rights you should know.
1. Your Right to Education
Education is a basic right, not a privilege. Regardless of background, gender, race, or even immigration status, we all have the same right to have a proper education in the United States. Being denied education due to one of the previously stated reasons is going against our rights as students. We all deserve to have the ability to be able to attend class without the fear of being denied our education as it is something that will and should be protected for all.
2. Your Right to Free Speech and Expression
As a student, we all have the right to express our opinions. This can come in a multitude of ways such as writing, protest, art, speeches, etc. However, it is important to remember to do these in a peaceful manner that doesn't cause a violent disruption. Now more than ever though, it is important to share and express our opinions, not letting our voices be silenced.
3. Your Right to Privacy
The Fourth Amendment protects students from unreasonable searches. This means that without reason, others cannot search within your personal belongings. However, if school officials do have reasonable suspicion, which may include seeing something illegal in plain sight, they may be allowed to start a search.
4. Your Right to Be Free from Discrimination
Discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or disability is illegal in schools. No student should be made to feel inferior or unsafe because of their identity. We are all protected to be free from any discriminatory action no matter if it comes from a faulty member or person in authority. Being subject to such actions can be grounds for a case with a higher authority.
5. Your Right to Speak Up Against Injustice
We are the future of our nation. Therefore it is important for us to speak up for what we believe is right and wrong. Whether it’s advocating for climate action, racial justice, or LGBTQ+ rights, you have the power to raise your voice. Although schools may have rules about when and where protests can occur, they cannot punish you simply for expressing your beliefs as long as it is done in a peaceful manner. Therefore we are always able to use our voice and advocate for ourselves and others.
Having the ability to understand our rights, especially the most important ones, is not out of rebellion for our actions but instead, it is out of protection for ourselves and those around us. We have the power and ability to advocate for ourselves, something that we have seen in this generation, and will hopefully continue to see in the future ones. Being young doesn’t mean being powerless. Your rights matter, and knowing them is the first step toward making a difference in your life and community.
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