Involve youth directly in decisions that affect them. Create more spaces and opportunities for intergenerational discussion between youth and adults/elders. Use these as opportunities to build relationships but also engage in conversation about issues that impact youth and the broader community, and how youth and adults can take meaningful action together. Adults in these spaces should be mindful of how to meaningfully engage with youth, and share power.
From our conversations with youth, and reviewing the Youth Impact Survey qualitative responses, it is clear that young people want greater involvement in decision making spaces. Young people are active members of their communities, but are often left out of conversations and decisions that impact them.
From decisions about school spaces, to community issues, to local, provincial, and federal politics – young people want their voices to be included. As youth who participated in the Data in Action journey with us noted, when youth are involved in decision-making, they have the space and opportunity to advocate for any of the issues presented through this resource.
Young people have a unique perspective, and a number of ideas for change (just look at what we’ve put together here with Data in Action!)
Expand public transportation routes to include small towns and suburban neighbourhoods, improving access for underserved areas and connecting to nearby communities.
Increase access to family physicians to reduce emergency room overuse and wait times.
Increase accountability of school staff to address bullying concerns raised by students (like homophobia, racism, ableism, sexism and sexual harassment, etc.) Establish consistent complaint processes, zero-tolerance policies, and ensure youth know the consequences of such behaviours.
Invest in long-term housing solutions by increasing safe spaces for youth and adults experiencing homelessness, building more affordable homes, and increasing funding for supportive housing services.
Involve youth directly in decisions that affect them. Create more spaces and opportunities for intergenerational discussion between youth and adults/elders. Use these as opportunities to build relationships but also engage in conversation about issues that impact youth and the broader community, and how youth and adults can take meaningful action together. Adults in these spaces should be mindful of how to meaningfully engage with youth, and share power.
Provide more or easier access to resources for immigrant parents restarting their lives in Canada.
