Jonathan Lee, a Freedom Schools student, gives a testimonial, putting a face on the need for comprehensive health coverage for all children. GALVESTON— Children’s Defense Fund (CDF)–Texas held a children’s march and rally followed by a press conference involving more than 200 youths in Galveston around the issue of health care reform. They joined nearly 12,000 children in 27 states as part of the CDF Freedom Schools National Day of Social Action. “The well-being of our children is the most important investment we can make. By ensuring all children have access to health coverage, we safeguard our own future.  It is exciting to watch the children turn lessons about advocacy into action, speaking out for themselves and others like them who typically are left out of the political process,” said CDF-Texas Youth Leadership Development Director and Houston CDF Freedom Schools founder Brandi Brown.
The event was part of the Children’s Defense Fund’s annual CDF Freedom Schools National Day of Social Action.  Throughout the summer, youths across the country from the CDF Freedom Schools after-school reading and cultural enrichment program learn how to engage in community service and social justice advocacy.  This part of the program is designed to instill a commitment to community engagement that will stay with participants for the rest of their lives.