Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, as MLAs, one of the platforms that we use to raise support for causes is here in the Chamber. Younger generations, meanwhile, are often very effective on platforms like TikTok and YouTube to get their voices out to those who will listen. One of my young constituents is one of those youths using social media platforms very effectively, and I want her to know that people are listening.
She had recently posted to Facebook a video sharing the reality of what too many young people are still facing every day at school. The video showed, for example, what it feels like to be someone who doesn't look athletic, as in relatively thin in stature, let's say, and so may be the last person chosen to participate on a team and yet also faces negative judgmental comments along the way. It showed an example of the kinds of stereotyping that happens based on a person's experience and appearance.
For another example, that a female who might not dress in what is a traditionally feminine manner can be judged for not being female enough. But if she dresses in a manner that magazine or pop culture tells us is feminine, they too can then be labelled for a variety of derogatory comments and ways. As if one's choice of clothing implies some kind of commitment about our values, our morals, our aspirations, or our desires.
Madam Speaker, what my young constituent had to say about that, I quote, "it sucks." I remember to this day comments made about my clothing that had, by necessity, to be inexpensive. I remember to this day comments about my body shape because it didn't portray the athleticism that was underneath it. I don't carry any hurt from that any longer, but I do carry an awareness of the importance of kindness and the need for courage to ask why we say such things to one another in the first place.
Madam Speaker, I see so much strength in young people today, particularly women and genderdiverse people. I see people wearing clothing that is about style and not necessarily conforming to rigid or narrow norms of beauty. And I see people enjoying activities because of the joy that they bring and not only because it is something they are supposed to do, or worse, not to. Clearly, we are not yet where we should be in terms of being the truly inclusive, respectful, or equitable society. But I'm very proud for my young constituent for getting this message out. I would not have had the courage to call out this kind of negativity when I was her age. But I do have the opportunity now to support and raise her voice from where I stand today. With youth like her and her friends out there, I can see and do believe we are on a good path to accelerate social change. Thank you, Madam Speaker.
Thank you, Member. Members' statements. Member for Range Lake.
