Students play an important role in the movement to end discrimination and eliminate racial disparities. If you are a high-school, college or graduate student, you can take action by working with ERASE Racism:
- Student Leadership Program (high-school)
- Internship/Fellowships (all ages)
- Volunteer (all ages)
- Student Voices (all ages)
Student Leadership Program
ERASE Racism’s Student Leadership Program is a series of workshops that teaches high-school students about the history of race and racism in the U.S. and how it continues to have an impact on Long Island. Students also learn about ways to work in their own community to bring about more racial equity.
Have a look at our photo gallery to see photos of students participating in the November 5, 2011 Third Annual Student Leadership Forum.
"I had a blast interacting in activities and meeting new people, and I think ERASE Racism is such a great program because it makes our generation know what is going on. So I thank you, yet again for giving me an experience that I will remember forever.” -2009 Student Participant
Internship/Fellowship information
ERASE Racism’s internships and fellowships are invaluable opportunities to gain non-profit and advocacy experience, strengthen research skills, and learn about project development, fundraising and new media.
“My work with ERASE Racism not only strengthened my research and advocacy skills, but it also deepened my commitment to become a civil rights lawyer and fight for racial equity.” -2008 Fellow
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Volunteer
You can support our efforts to bring about racial equity by volunteering. We are dedicated to matching your skills and interests to projects that will be fun and meaningful.
"Volunteering for ERASE Racism has been an empowering and eye-opening experience. It has reshaped my view of the place I have called home and has informed my understanding of the obstacles that it faces." -2011 Volunteer
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Student Voices
Jamie Genatt, Grade 12
I believe that without everyone’s participation, racism will never be totally eradicated. Racism is a very difficult problem to tackle because both those who offend and those who are victims of racism are at fault of staying quiet about the issue.
Even at my high school that stresses values like equality and respect, and is harsh in its dealings with anyone who go against those values, racism is an issue. The high regard for diversity and inclusion does not stop individuals from making racist remarks or using derogatory language. Students frequently joke about racism in TV shows, laugh at videos targeting a certain race, and use derogatory language such as the “n word.” Most of the time, the racist comments or the use of racist words are presented as a joke. This is why many students, even those who are offended, won’t stand up and say something.
Being a bystander and one that sees its occurrence almost on a daily basis, I feel that it is my duty in this community to put forth an effort to stop it. If other youth join in the fight against racism, perhaps the next generation of students will learn how to value racial and ethnic differences rather than disregard them.
Paul Ngu, Grade 11
Hi, my name is Paul Ngu and I am currently a high school student. Although I wasn’t born in the United States, I like to think that my experiences moving from Malaysia to California to New York have given me a unique lens to view my life here on Long Island. As an Asian immigrant to the United States, I’ve faced the challenges of balancing two cultures on my back and, through this process, I’ve come to realize the value and necessity of diversity. To me, diversity in all its forms--from race to socio-economic status to religion to political views--has proven to be a fundamental instrument in the development and success of America.
I have been encouraged by my parents, peers and teachers to aim for excellence in my education and the activities I choose to pursue. However, I understand that there are roadblocks for some students in their own paths for success. Factors like poverty, race and even cultural differences can affect the opportunities available for students to succeed and excel in Long Island and throughout the nation. My interests in this area, drawn from my background and developed from readings and conversations with others, have led me to volunteer for ERASE Racism. Through my involvement with this organization, I hope to help move forward the conversation about the benefits of diversity, so that others feel inspired to create a Long Island were everyone has equal opportunities to succeed.
