A few years ago, kids were actively dissuaded from getting involved in social issues. However, that's all changed, and today, an increasing number of teens and pre-teens alike are stepping up to have their voices heard - and that extends to famous faces, too!
One such example is Cheaper By The Dozen actor, Leo Abelo Perry.
This Hollywood superstar in the making is doing his part to raise awareness for the issues he feels strongly about - and he's encouraging others to do the same.
So driven is Leo, in fact, that he's the host of 'The Activators': a podcast dedicated to giving young activists a platform.
TheThings sat down with Leo to hear more about 'The Activators', his tips for those new to advocacy, and how he got involved with social justice projects at such a young age.
Leo Reveals The Moment He Came Up With His First Social Justice Project
Asked if he could remember when he first felt a pull to be involved in social justice projects, Leo shares that he and his mom attended several Black Lives Matter protests in the Summer of 2020 - one of which set the stage for his foray into advocacy.
"One of [the protests] was pretty scary, but it ended in a dance. I love dancing, and I was like - what if I dance?"
Inspired by the dance that took place at the end of a protest, Leo began thinking about how he could channel his own love of the arts into activism.
"A couple of days later," he reminisces, "I started something called Dance for Justice."
"I went to our front yard, drew 'Dance 4 Justice' with a piece of chalk, played some music and just danced, asking people for any donations to BLM throughout the day."
The Dance for Justice movement has since gained significant traction online, and Leo ended up dancing every day for a year. During that time, he managed to raise awareness for BLM and other kids programs that focus on the arts.
On top of awareness, however, Dance for Justice has also raised some impressive funds: "we ended up raising over $20k!" the actor beams.
Leo Gushes Over Being Able To Bring People Together
Aside from the fundraising and awareness boosting, Leo points out that what stuck out to him the most was being able to bring people together.
"That was the best part," he smiles - "seeing so many people coming together to support, including kids and families."
Not one to let go of an opportunity to make a bigger impact, Leo explains that it was precisely this sense of community which inspired him to take his next steps into the world of advocacy, this time, through his podcast, 'The Activators'.
Leo On 'The Activators'
As for how he decided to start a podcast, he credits A Kid's Company About - an organization for which his passion is palpable.
"[A Kid's Company About's] whole thing is that they talk up to kids, not down."
"We talk about all the stuff that's happening in the world AND what to do about it," he continues, adding, "[on 'The Activators'], I host and interview kid activists who are doing what they love, to spread more love."
For Leo, interacting with other young activists is a gift in itself, and asked what's stood out to him so far, he merely shakes his head, saying that there are too many kids doing good work to single out just one.
"Some are juggling soccer balls to raise money for kids' cancer research, while another performs and stands up for gender equity and inclusion. These kids are AMAZING!"
Thinking about the impact 'The Activators' has the potential to make, Leo explains that ultimately, his goal is to inspire both kids - "and their grownups" - to make the world a better place.
Leo's Advice For Anyone Wanting To Make A Difference
When it comes to community outreach, it's safe to say that Leo is pretty hands-on - but he's also aware that many would-be activists just don't know where to begin.
Leo's advice? Use what you love as a starting point.
"Do what you love, to spread more love," he urges, going back to the Dance for Justice movement that helped him get his start as an activist.
"If you love cooking or baking, there are SO many organizations and schools working with kids and communities on how to cook healthier. Why not use your love for cooking and baking to volunteer with them?"
By getting started with something you truly enjoy and have an affinity for, "you'll probably feel more connected to it and stick with it," Leo nods.
"Plus," he concludes, with a chuckle, "you do your part in saving our world...that has to help with the motivation!"
Leo is one inspirational young man - and his journey to making a difference is just beginning.