Global Changemakers

On Mondays, http://www.global-changemakers.net turns into Speakers’ Corner: members of the network and community have their say on their work and the issues that concern them.

Meeting Rev Jesse Jackson: Change doesn’t come easy

Creating change doesn’t come easy; Rev Jesse Jackson will tell you this from personal experience.

On Wednesday I joined 2500 fellow members of the British public to thank the UK government in protecting the Aid budget. The government, during a difficult time of cuts across the board, have fortunately decided not balance the book on the backs of the poorest people in the world.

We were also there to show our concerns by lobbying against parliament on issues such as Climate Change and Tax dodging by multinational companies robbing poor countries of more than £160bn a year.

As a young activist I took part as I feel these issues are part of the solution in helping eradicate poverty. American civil rights activist, the Rev Jesse Jackson also came to show his support, further highlighting change doesn’t come easily and if you want it enough its worth fighting for.

He addressed a strong crowd of more than 2000 on the day the government’s Comprehensive Spending Review, was be announced. The Rev Jesse Jackson declared: “We understand that times are hard, both in the US and the UK, but we are still better off than our neighbours in the developing world.”

“So while we fight for jobs and peace and justice in the UK and the US, we must remember to keep hope alive for our brothers and sisters in Africa, in the Caribbean, in South Asia, and all those in need around the world,” he said.

I was privileged enough to meet the man himself, who highlighted the importance of young people getting involved with pushing for social change. Something that is very fitting with “Future Voices International” (my community action plan). The day has definitely been a successful memorable one, with over 350 constituencies represented, over 120 MPs lobbied including cabinet members.

For further information regarding this lobby please visit: www.christianaid.org.uk and my CAP: www.futurevoicesinternational.org

Sadiq, Global Changemaker (UK)

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