SEARAC Youth Speak Out on Education - Gao Lu Moua

Last month, the Department of Education held it's "Voices in Action: National Youth Summit" in Washington, D.C. SEARAC brought four Southeast Asian American youth to attend the conference, and we asked them to report back.

Gao Lu Moua * Woodbury, MN * 12th grade

Gao Lu Moua, Becky Lee, Christsna Sot, and Jeff Dam at the Voices in Action Summit. Photo courtesy of Gao Lu Moua.

What did you learn at the “Voices in Action: National Youth Summit”?

One thing I learned was that at public schools, superiors of schools are cutting Fine Arts classes. This affects many students because these classes usually serve as an escape from their reality--a reality which many of us never have to experience. One college student performed a spoken word piece. Her words smoothly, and powerfully, told of her high school's Fine Arts classes getting cut. During the four years in which she attended high school, nine students  committed suicide because they did not have these classes where they could express themselves. She spoke of how she could not grasp the fact that nine victims' deaths were not enough to get anyone to listen and how this is incredibly flawed.

Sitting in the audience during a panel. Photo courtesy of Gao Lu Moua.

What was your favorite memory from your trip to DC?

My favorite memory would have to be just meeting new people--especially Becky and Christsna who represented SASC [Southeast Asian Student Coalition] with me!! And it was nice seeing Jeff again! Also, at the conference, I met a lot of new people who were all so kind, genuine, and diverse. I met people from Michigan, Cali, Arizona, etc... It was a cool experience.

Kalpen Modi addresses the participants. Photo courtesy of Jeff Dam.

What is your message to other young people about education?

My message to other young people is do not give up on yourself when things seem hard. It will all benefit you one day. When you feel like things aren't going your way, always ask for help. Someone is there for you, and they do not always have to be a close relative. They could be the FAFSA lady on the phone (like in my case!). Also, don't procrastinate. Get your stuff done and your priorities straight sooner so you don't lose your marbles. I'd also like to say that it's important that we all help each other out. Lastly, I'd just like to say to other youth that we need to keep fighting--it does not matter if you are black, white, yellow, orange, or purple! Everyone has the right to learn, so keep on doing what you can to receive a good education.

Sightseeing after the conference. Posing in front of the White House. Photo courtesy of Jeff Dam.