Community Strengthening
Stories from the Community
Youth Rise Up And Represent
Thursday, 2nd June 2011
The Indigenous community represents over 50% of youth incarceration in NSW.
Jason, a 16 year old Indigenous Australian living in rural Parkes represents YMCA NSW Youth Parliament as the youth member for Dubbo.
Representing the Aboriginal Affairs committee, YMCA Youth Parliament has allowed Jason to express his passion about his aboriginality and also tackle the issue of Indigenous under representation in NSW Parliament.
Jason realises he has a powerful voice, and sees Youth Parliament not just as a vehicle to empower other young Indigenous Australians but also to educate other young people about Aboriginal Affairs.
“I have always believed in the power of people to change their circumstances. I think the youth in my region have very specific concerns and it is my honour to make those concerns heard in parliament.”
Jason O’Neill, YMCA NSW Youth Parliamentarian
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