Treaty of Middelburg
I wish the world would stop placing unnecessary pressure on certain groups within society, labeling them as the cause of problems or as inherently bad. These groups are often blamed for things beyond their control and are unjustly seen as targets of hate. It’s heartbreaking to witness how this leads to violence, discrimination, and fear. Rather than embracing diversity, society often creates divisions, painting certain people with broad, harmful strokes. It’s time for a change, a world where no one has to live in constant fear or be treated as less than because of who they are. We need a world that values empathy over judgment, understanding over hate, and unity over division. Only then can we move forward, free from the shadows of injustice and intolerance.
Team members
- ■ Lena le Clercq
Why do you want to participate?
I have spent my entire life deeply engaged with the world around me. I focus not only on the progressive aspects of life but also on the setbacks we face as individuals and as a global community. At times, I feel overwhelmed by the state of the world. However, I find it incredibly inspiring to think about being a part of it all, surrounded by people who are driven to move forward, unafraid to confront the difficult truths and challenges the world faces. It would be incredibly fulfilling to know that what I do and say has meaning, that my voice matters, and that I am contributing to something larger. I believe this is the way to achieve that, to be part of a movement that tackles the crucial issues head-on and makes a real impact.
What does freedom mean to you?
As a woman in a lesbian relationship living in a small town, I am confronted every day with the fact that we have not yet achieved the true meaning of ‘freedom.’ And it’s not just that. I watch the news, I read the papers, and time and time again, I can confidently say that we have not yet reached this ideal. In my eyes, we are only truly free when we can be who we want to be and express ourselves in whatever way we choose, without having to worry about the society we live in. This freedom is still hindered in many forms today, through laws, violence, judgmental looks, and hurtful comments. For me, the concept of freedom is fulfilled when everyone, regardless of how they wish to live, feels safe and not just safe, but also tolerated, included, accepted, loved, and welcomed. That is when true freedom will have been achieved.
What are the biggest challenges?
One of the biggest challenges regarding freedom for young people today is the increasing polarization that divides them. Different groups of youth are being pitted against each other, creating a climate of tension and hostility. While many young people today may feel they live in a bubble of progressiveness and acceptance, the truth is that those in power are becoming increasingly conservative, attempting to reverse advancements that have been made in areas such as gender rights, equality, and social freedoms. At the same time, there is more space than ever before for young people to be who they truly are and express their feelings openly. However, the very attention and openness surrounding these topics have also led to young people being placed under a magnifying glass by society. The more visibility there is, the more scrutiny follows, making it harder for many to live freely without fear of judgment or backlash. This combination of increasing conservatism, societal scrutiny, and the clash of divided ideologies presents a significant challenge for today’s youth in their quest for true freedom.
Do you have a message?
I believe we need to keep talking about these issues. having open, honest conversations that can break down barriers and bring people together. I’m searching for a place where I can share these thoughts and connect with others who feel the same way. This feels like that space, where we can all speak up and make a change. It’s time for a world where no one has to hide who they are and where freedom truly belongs to everyone.
