"The time is always right to do what is right."
-Martin Luther King Jr.
Growing up, my passion has always been to seek change for a
better world — one that is fair and just for everyone who has struggled against
various injustices and unfairness. It is my belief that this change can only
occur if we choose to do what is right.
My name is Maria Martinez-Yocute, and I am currently a
senior at the University of Illinois in Springfield, majoring in political science
with legal studies. As I look toward the future, my dream of attending law
school and becoming an immigration lawyer holds the key to unlocking this
better world.
This semester, I am lucky enough to have the opportunity to
intern with the Faith Coalition for the Common Good, a non-profit organization
dedicated to fostering positive change within our community. This opportunity
is a blessing, as it aligns perfectly with my quest to initiate a better world.
Within FCCG, I currently serve as a community organizer, working with the
Education Equity Task Force and digital organizing, two realms where I can make
a tangible impact.
Throughout my life, I have observed and been deeply aware of
the unfairness that exists within our community. As a passionate person about
immigration law and as an immigrant myself, I understand the unique challenges
and struggles faced by individuals who are seeking a better life in a new
country. As a future immigration lawyer, I will aim to make a difference in the
lives of those who have suffered injustices and barriers to achieving their
dreams. Encouraging immigrants to thrive, integrating them into society, and
fighting against anti-immigrant sentiment fuel my passion for change.
I consider this internship with the Faith Coalition for the
Common Good a significant opportunity to create the change we desperately need.
My primary aim is to ensure that people of color feel understood, heard, and
recognized as catalysts for change. Together, we can change the world by influencing
people's perspectives and inspiring them to contribute to the better world we
should have built decades ago.
As I work with the Education Equity Task Force, I will be
faced with the harsh reality that many children are denied an equal chance at a
quality education. Far too often, children from disadvantaged backgrounds lack
access to the same resources and opportunities as their more privileged peers.
This inequity perpetuates a cycle of poverty and disadvantage that has far-reaching
consequences. I am driven to fight for educational equity, so every child has
access to the resources they need to succeed, regardless of background.
While equality may be present, there is a pressing need for
equity. It is not enough to treat everyone the same; we must strive for
fairness that recognizes and addresses the unique challenges faced by different
individuals. Imagine the world we could create if our focus shifted toward
helping and uplifting the disadvantaged. It is within this paradigm of equity
that we can truly form a community where everyone can thrive and lead proper
lives.
Today, as a new generation, we still endure the unfairness
stemming from past generations. If we do not act now, then when will we? The
time for action is upon us. We must raise our voices and actively work toward
creating real differences. Let our voice of justice echo; let our voice of justice
be heard; but more importantly, let our voice of justice create a new journey
of change.
For those of you who share the same vision of a greater
world, I encourage you to consider volunteering with the Faith Coalition for
the Common Good or joining us at the events mentioned below. Together, we can
make a difference in our community — one that fosters equity, fairness, and
justice.
Let's stand united in creating positive change!
Upcoming events: Let’s Talk About Housing Equity, Feb. 26, 6-7:30p.m.,
Calvary M.B. Church; Transformational Justice Expo, March 22, 2-6pm, Salvation
Army, Clear Lake Avenue; Listening Campaign, March 23, 10am to 3pm, – Calvary
M.B. Church; and Spring Gala An Evening of Stars : Reimagining and Rebuilding
for More, April 11, 5:30 pm, - Artisan Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds.
Maria Martinez-Yocute is an intern with the Faith
Coalition for the Common Good. If you have any questions or want more
information on how to get involved, email [email protected] or
visit https://faithcoalition-il.org/.
