Activist and advocate McKenzie-Jackson once said, “Activism isn‘t just about actions or social media; it always starts with a passion, and people need to be in touch with that first. Everyone has a voice that can turn society on its head; it’s just about feeling empowered enough to use it.” This powerful statement encapsulates the essence of activism, highlighting the necessity of personal connection to one‘s beliefs. Freedom of speech isn’t about expressing your concerns. It‘s about building a strong foundation and having a purpose in life. Not just your voice, but the voices of everyone around you, acting to change the world. You benefit more from other people’s freedom of speech than your own because their voices shield you from injustice, fuel your growth and freedom, and enrich your life.

Having other people to fight for or with you can benefit your wellbeing. Whenever groups demand or protest, they are representing a larger voiceless group of people. On June 14 2025, President Trump held a parade in honor of his birthday and the 250 year anniversary of the US army. That same day, over five million people participated in more than 2000 planned protests. It‘s a perfect example of people showcasing how powerful freedom of voice or actions can be even going against the most powerful man in the nation. Other voices are the shield that protects us from the dangers, but are also the ones that fuel us.

If you only have yourself to talk to, you can soon run out of things to say. This is because you only have a limited amount of knowledge in your brain and need other ideas as well. Fear of judgement can easily lead to suppression of thoughts and feelings, but once you realize that others are thinking the same, it shatters the isolation. It could be as simple as hearing someone have the same question as you in class, to hearing a stranger reframe failure. Growth and freedom are both gifts, but without a purpose driven life, they mean nothing.

Our lives need something to grow on, and we can’t grow without change. Other people around you can point out the beautiful things you missed, opening your eyes to the things that give life meaning. According to Mental Health.org, Social media campaigns like #Kindness Matters inspire action around the world. 74% of participants reported more environmental appreciation. Diverse voices give you more choices, more paths for you to choose from. One person can only know so many tricks and shortcuts, but once you hear from others, there is a whole new world of possibilities.

The voices of many others can benefit you more than your one voice because they can give a voice to the silenced, contribute to your learning and freedom, and bring purpose into your life. People suggest new ideas never thought of before, invent things never dreamed before, and inspire people never included before. Everyone has a limit, but all that matters is where you choose to go from there. The truth is, your voice shines, but it‘s the people around you that makes it burn.

<Abigail Jung 페어몬트 중학교 7학년>