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Wow, a double disappointment. First I read local writer, Naomi Lakritzs' article about 'Kids not being grown up to make grown up decisions', blasting MP Karen Kraft Sloan and Senator Landon Pearson for suggesting a Federal Children's Commissioner. Then I read the Herald's Editorial Page, supporting this notion. As the Executive Director of a youth run and directed non profit in place to support and advocate for children and youth living in government care, I have learned what happens when we provide youth a voice. We see youth make change. We see youth take action. We see youth who are engaged in their community, regardless of size be it a family, school or our nation. Why is there a fear about seeking the input of children and youth? Is it that some of our 'adult' ideas might just not wash, or that some of our proposed services or laws that affect children are in fact, not needed or could be improved? Worse yet, what if their ideas were better than ours? Children and youth are the real 'experts' on their needs. They might identify them differently than us but their input is critical to the success of ANY initiative that will have an effect on them. We would not dare initiate services to any other group without seeking their input, be them seniors, women or the disabled. Why would children and youth be different. This is the form of discrimination that leads to a disenfranchised group. Ask any young offender if they felt like part of a community. Don't be surprised when they answer no! Skilled adults, be it a parent or a commissioner, can respectfully provide information to children and youth in a way that they can understand that will allow for well thought out feedback. Ranging from where to go on summer holidays to how our country can be run, true respect for an individual means including them. I agree that you do not want to burden children with adult concerns and issues, but that does not mean excluding them from the process. Don't we challenge youth to work hard to get a job done...and as adults it is our job to support youth to make informed decisions and to provide appropriate feedback. I applaud the Hon. Ms. Kraft Sloan and the Hon. Senator Pearson for committing to children in a fashion that every adult should. It is not surprising that Ms. Lakritz and the Herald struggled with such a profound respect these two women have showed Canadian children; seeing that their vision of respect includes calling others peoples ideas "stupid". Having said this, it is no surprise that they cannot recognize the importance of including children and youth in any decision making processes. Peace, for the Earth.
 
tgmag@tgmag.ca
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