We are continuing features on our Mississippi Youth Council (MYCouncil) members. MYCouncil is made up of 10 passionate youth activists from across Mississippi that support and promote high-quality comprehensive sex education for all young people. They work to ensure that young people have a voice in the debate around what gets taught in Mississippi schools. Follow MYCouncil on Facebook.

KALLY XU

Hometown: Madison, Mississippi

Classification/School: Senior/St. Andrews

Age: 17

How long have you been a member of MYCouncil (MYC)?

This is my first year as a member.

Why did you apply to MYC?

I applied to MYC because I was sick of being voiceless, of helplessly watching as Mississippi’s politicians completely disregard Mississippi’s  issues in favor of conservative policies. The lack of change is a disservice to my generation and the generations after mine- as someone who cannot vote, who isn’t a politician, I finally feel like I have a say through MYC.

What do you enjoy most about MYC?

I love getting to know my fellow MYC members, who have done nothing but inspire me and encourage me to be the person I strive to be. They make me a better person and accept me for my differences- it doesn’t get any better than that.

What project has impacted you the most during your time on MYC?

Presenting at the Teach for America Conference in Cleveland, MS, really impacted me because I met teachers who are just as passionate about change, who work for the same things MYC works for. The risks they take, the work they do- it’s absolute incredible.

What is your vision for sexual education in Mississippi public schools?

I hope that one day, Mississippi will provide its youth with completely comprehensive education- this means embracing diversity and including everyone, not just straight people or religious people. This means providing all the information available, not just picking and choosing what is subjectively “acceptable” and what isn’t. This means respecting people’s right to choose their future and to choose their actions.

What drives your passion for the work you do? 

The anger I feel when I meet people who have been direct victims of the abysmal state of Mississippi’s sex education drives me, and meeting strong and amazing people through this work inspires me.

Has this experience impacted your future career goals? 

MYC has done nothing but convince me that I want to dedicate my life to advocacy work, service work, and helping others.