Utilizing talents for change can be an incredibly powerful tool. The combination of natural gifts and passionate advocacy can create momentum that genuinely comes from the heart making it more impactful.

Some people sing, others create art, create films, write, some stay up to date on social media and repost important information. My point is that everyone has a voice; it just comes in different forms. When you choose to use your voice for the greater good, you can make the world a better place.

Of course, this is easier said than done. Advocacy can be overwhelming, especially when the issue feels personal or frightening. For me, a lot of the news about immigration has always been terrifying.

I remember one day when I was younger I came home from school and I started packing all of my most important items. When my mom came home she asked me why, and I said in reply, “because someone at school told me I was going to be deported”.

I was only a child and held much fear but I didn’t fully understand the graveness of what was happening, but it frightened me. Now the issues with immigration are something I understand more deeply. And since they directly affect my community they are conversations I can’t avoid.

It has been hard, but I have tried to avoid that hatred by channeling it into something more positive and productive. I compete in forensics, and I have always loved how public speaking can advocate for social issues and I love the performing aspect. When I began writing my speech this year, I struggled. The topic made me sad, and even though immigration policies frustrate me, I didn’t want to only be consumed by fury. That just isn’t who I am.

Two things helped me decide the stance I wanted to take. First, I watched the Super Bowl halftime show and loved how Bad Bunny addressed serious issues with so much festivity and pride in his music. Even when there was anger, it was expressed through love. Then I was reminded that my faith is what keeps me rooted in love.

So I chose a different approach. In my speech, I quote the Good Samaritan (which is a parable in the Bible): “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” I also bring a lighthearted approach into it through rap and stand-up comedy. When I am competing I sometimes I feel a bit absurd using satire but when I remind myself of why I am addressing the topic in this way it feels right.

Using your voice is especially important today, because many people in the world cannot use theirs. Millions of people live in fear, live in silence, and live unheard. So find what you are passionate about and use your voice.

Finding light in dark moments is something I have always tried to do, through it I have learned that laughing and creating moments of joy does not ignore the problem. It taught me that even when something is heartbreaking, it will not stop me from trying to bring love into the world.

As Bad Bunny said, “if we fight we have to do it with love.”