Treaty of Middelburg
I think there are many spaces in the world of fighting for freedom that I would love to work on, but one of the most simple but vital areas of improvement comes down to communication. Freedom also means being able to discuss hot topics without fear of safety and/or backlash. I think the skill of communicating effectively, especially in healthy debates and healthy conflict, should be a core skill taught from a young age. I think it’s okay to disagree with someone, as long as you try to understand where they’re coming from and why. I try to actively practice and share this skill in my daily life by engaging in more difficult conversations, especially when there’s less overlap on belief systems or values, because I want to foster an environment of self-debate and curiosity with others. If we want a future where freedom thrives, we need spaces that encourage open dialogue, critical thinking, and empathy, not division and polarization.
Team members
- ■ Marie Foster
Why do you want to participate?
I’m excited to learn how my peers experience freedom and to explore both policy and grassroots action as forces of change as we understand what freedom means and how to make noticeable changes. I think the diversity of this conference means I will hear perspectives that I've never come across before and I'm excited to learn how I can use my voice to empower and protect the freedom of those around me.
What does freedom mean to you?
Coming from the United States, a country built on the idea of freedom, I recognize how deeply this concept is woven into our society—and how it continues to be tested and redefined in today’s political climate. To be honest, I’m not sure what freedom truly means anymore, which is why having spaces to engage in conversations about it is so vital. For me, freedom ultimately comes down to having the ability to choose how I want to live my life—so long as it doesn’t harm others or the planet—and protecting that right for others. In a time where freedom is often politicized and unevenly distributed, I believe it’s more important than ever to ask: Who has freedom, and how can we protect it for everyone?
What are the biggest challenges?
One of the biggest challenges is feeling like our voices actually create change. Whether in politics, climate action, or social issues, I see young people are speaking up, yet real decisions often remain in the hands of older generations. Additionally, economic barriers, like student loans and rising living costs, also limit freedom by making it harder to truly choose our own paths and worry about a bigger picture when we have to focus on necessities like food and housing. On top of that, the looming climate crisis threatens our most fundamental right—the right to a livable future. These challenges make it clear that freedom is not just about having choices, but about ensuring those choices actually exist.
Do you have a message?
not at this time! Thank you!
