Erin Catania proves that no one is too young to stand up for what they believe in. At 11 years old, Catania possesses an acute sense of justice and responsibility. Though she lives with her family in Natick, she made up her mind to travel to Washington D.C. to participate in the Women’s March on Washington on Saturday, Jan. 21. The experience has spurred her on to continue fighting for important causes.
Showing Support
Advocating for the rights of women and other minority groups is something Catania takes seriously. Though she was intent on marching in the capitol, she thought about what it would take to get there and planned accordingly. She launched a crowdfunding campaign to help raise the money to go.
“I decided to use GoFundMe because I knew the trip would cost a lot. I have a big family, and I knew it would help my parents a lot if I raised half of the cost on my own,” Catania explained.
The response came in loud and clear. She reached her $1,200 funding goal thanks to 39 donors, many of which also encouraged her through comments on her GoFundMe page. One contributor said, “You go girl! Don’t ever stop letting your voice be heard!” Another said, “Great story. The world needs your voice. Can’t wait to meet you in D.C.”
“It felt really awesome to know that my family and friends and some people I don’t know supported me in going to the Women’s March,” Catania said.
Marching Together
On the big day, Catania marched the streets with her mother Julie, older sister Caitria, and friends. Her outfit was complete with a knitted pink hat that became a symbol of the march, as well as a shirt she received from Dr. Peter Sanchioni, the superintendent of Natick Public Schools.
The group merged with a crowd that Catania described as “large, determined and peaceful.” “I was surprised by how many people attended, both young and old,” she said. “There were moms with baby strollers, handicapped people, and grandmas and grandpas.”
Now widely considered the largest demonstration in U.S. history, the march has made an indelible mark on those who participated, including Catania. “It was really exciting to be a part of such a powerful message,” she said. “I knew I was a part of something so amazing and historic.”
“We had an incredible experience,” her mother said of the march. “I am so proud of Erin.”
A Big Mission
Catania says the biggest thing she learned from her experience in D.C. was about the power she has to stand up for what is right.
“I learned that it is important to express my feelings on fair and equal rights for everyone, and that my voice can make a difference, even at age 11,” she said. “I am only a young girl, but I have a pretty big voice.”
This perspective is sure to guide her, and will help shape her decisions as she grows up and determines the kind of person she wants to be.
“I want to use my voice to help people know that it doesn’t matter if you’re a girl or a boy, what religion, race or ability you have, or who you love,” she explained. “Everyone deserves the same rights, pay and opportunities. Kindness, compassion and understanding should be a human right for everyone.”
With that attitude, there is no limit to the good she can do in the world.
Issue Date:
March, 2017
Article Body: