I discovered my passion for social action last year, after watching a film in my Contemporary World Problems about the genocide that is taking place in Darfur. Since my grandparents were Holocaust survivors, I wondered how I could remain silent in the face of such a tragedy, so I took it upon myself to provide adults and students with knowledge of this crisis . Contemplating the enormity of Darfur might cause some people to despair and consequently do nothing. I'm not content to do nothing. In the words of Nobel Prize winner Elie Wiesel, a Holocaust survivor like my own grandparents, “Because I remember, I despair. Because I remember, I have the duty to reject despair.”
One of the people that inspired me the most is Shana Greenstien who was my language arts teacher in 10th and 11th grade. She provided me with the strength, and support that got me through some tough times. Another person whom I’ve always admired is Eli Wiesel ( as stated in the paragraph above).
The Frank Garmo Award recognizes American citizens that chose to implement a positive change in their community through the means of educating others about domestic and international issues that concern humanity. This award demonstrates that there are still people that are not complacent and apathetic the current situation in the world. I am honored to be on the same scale as these couragous individuals.