|
My Rock the Trail experience changed me forever. For the last six months, I was completely immersed in this momentous and historic election, bringing you first-hand accounts from the front lines of the 2008 election. I reported live from the Democratic and Republican conventions, interviewing notable politicians such as Ralph Nader and Rosa Clemente. I networked with inspiring peers at the National Hip Hop Political Convention in Las Vegas, and reported on issues impacting young people everyday, from Minneapolis to Brooklyn.
Before I was selected for the Rock the Trail program, I was knowledgeable about and involved in the political process through teaching classes, issue-activism and grassroots organizing. But never before had I seen so many people -- young people and people of color -- excited about issues, politics or a particular candidate.
In Denver, vendors enthusiastically sold election merchandise. In Las Vegas, taxi drivers chattered about the most recent presidential polls. In Minneapolis, a barbershop was mistaken for a political headquarters. In the Bay Area, young people started a green bike movement. In Harlem, political posters hung in shop windows. People who oftentimes feel excluded from the political process were involved and excited.
Finally! Something positive. Instead of asking, "Where were you when the towers fell?" or, "Where were you when the bridge collapsed?" you can ask, "Where were you when Obama was elected?"
I am proud to say that my journalism career began to take shape while covering the most important election of our lifetime. This newly-found voice was strengthened by my photography skills, quickly transforming into a passionate addiction. I blogged daily, went to events I wouldn't have gone to otherwise, wrote excessively, learned filmmaking, interviewed anyone who had a minute to spare and took portraits of random folks.
But this experience would not have been the same without the support and tools from my mentors. Rock the Vote and my editors, Kristina Rizga and Jamilah King at WireTap and Michael Aston, provided countless hours of coaching and mentoring, as well as the necessary tools to successfully document the power of the youth vote. Whenever I had questions about journalism ethics, or needed advice about how to frame my next story, they were there to share their expertise and help me find my voice.
The Rock the Trail program pushed me into action, increasing my self-discipline and work ethic. Talk about deadlines (and I thought school was bad)! Sleepless nights and thousands upon thousands of emails, photos, video logs and blogs later, I have truly been tested as a journalist. I stood in an elevator at the DNC at 7:30 a.m. and saw seasoned CNN journalists disheveled with bags under their eyes. They were dead tired and sore, but they were reporting the stories that will be printed and reprinted in the history books. I ran toward protesters being arrested in order to get the photo, probably against the wishes of my parents. But that image is frozen in time and will outlast any fear I had in my body, any doubts in my mind.
After this intense period of reporting, I'm exhausted, but I wouldn't trade any amount of sleep for the history I lived. Immersion in this election solidified my desire to continue reporting straight from the streets, for the people. I will continue to fight everyday to keep my art alive, my activism meaningful, my politics open and my voice strong.
After reflecting on the power of the past six months, I'd like to share a few realizations I had that I hope will inspire you:
Face Your Fears
Nothing, not even fear, should stand between you and the world. I was nervous traveling the country by myself, but I couldn't imagine it any other way. The adventures I had, the relationships I forged and the things I saw have made me stronger, more informed and less resistant to change. With every fear I tackled, another strength emerged, adding to my arsenal of tools to fight for justice and work for equality. When you face your fears, your purpose becomes clearer.
Networking
No matter how intimidating it is to share your perspective and listen to those different from yourself, the sheer act of connecting will change your perceptions and open your mind to new possibilities. Whether it is a new study buddy, a colleague across town or a network of media affiliates across the country, each person has a unique life experience that links with your journey. You have something valuable to offer that your neighbor may need. And when you have people you can call on for advice or for a reference, these networks become more valuable than money. The bridges that you build today can last a lifetime. Mentors can push you to the next level by sharing their first-hand experience. Utilize the resources you have, seek out opportunities, share your strengths and you will find success.
Persistence
For every step forward, something will set you back two steps. It's a cliché, but it's so true. It takes persistence to find what you are good at, and even more persistence to be successful at it. If you want to be a published author, it may take you many, many years of beating down doors, excessive writing, phone calls, e-mails, smoke signals and networking. As a photographer, if I want to cover a concert, I may end up having to jump through many hoops -- from calling the venue, finding the promoter, the record label and the publisher. Then you make it to the door, and you aren't on the list. Persistence will get you through that door.
Be the Media
Rock the Trail and other similar programs are testaments to the success of citizen media. You don't need any official training; you just need an idea, story, news, an interesting and relevant topic, and you're good to go. Equip yourself with anything: A laptop, video camera, pen and pad, voice recorder. Whatever it is, you can tell a story. The technology is affordable enough that you can create your own podcast, photo or video blog. Most hosting services are free. I have become a multi-media machine. I write, report, interview, blog, take photos, make videos and can edit it all. With the experience of covering the biggest political conventions under my belt, I have learned how to hit the streets, and effectively use media to reach those who might not otherwise be reached. Use your voice. Be loud and proud.
|
