Three out of four teenagers today express genuine concerns about the specter of gun violence in schools. In a world where safety should be a given, what can one individual do to illuminate a path toward change? Enter Anud Hashi, a senior at Highland High School in Salt Lake City, whose passion for her community exemplifies hope in adversity.
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Hashi, a dynamic young leader, proudly poses with the Somali flag, symbolizing her roots and her commitment to her community. Having migrated from Ethiopia in 2011, she understands the nuances of cultural transitions and the complexities that come with them. She is particularly concerned about the issue of gun violence affecting her Somali community, a matter that weighs heavily on her heart.
In 2024, tragedy struck close to home. Anud learned that a cherished family friend was shot and killed in a gang-related incident. This heart-wrenching experience rattled her family and left them grappling with questions. How could something so horrific happen in their neighborhood? The ache of loss was palpable, and it forced them to confront a reality that many families fear.
But Hashi did not allow despair to define her. Instead, like many of her contemporaries in Generation Z, she sought a way to make a difference. A recent study funded by the National Institute of Child Health Development revealed that 75% of teens aged 14 to 17 are worried about school gun violence. This statistic struck a chord with Hashi, compelling her to take action.
The Children’s Defense Fund has also highlighted a troubling finding: school shootings rank as the second most significant fear among children aged six to seventeen. Hashi understands this fear all too well, especially within her community. “It’s a growing problem in the Somali community,” she shared, emphasizing that the risks and impacts of gun violence are intensifying. “I think it’s a problem that continues to get worse.”
After the heartache of losing her friend, Anud made a pivotal choice. She joined the Somali Anti-Gun Violence Campaign, a grassroots initiative aimed at educating Somali parents about the dangers of gun violence and its implications for minority communities, particularly in geographically concentrated areas. Though still in its infancy, Hashi envisions a future where the campaign flourishes, reducing gun violence among Somalis.
In her role as a volunteer, she has taken on several responsibilities, ranging from assisting with translation for parents to distributing informational brochures. She creates posters and actively promotes the initiative in both her local community and at school. Despite her youth, her enthusiasm is infectious, and she eagerly anticipates a more substantial role in the campaign. “It’s a growing problem, and I would like to take a bigger role in the education aspect of it,” Hashi asserted passionately. “I think that’s what a lot of parents are missing. This needs to be addressed more.”
Most importantly, Hashi embodies the belief that youth can influence change. She currently serves as the president of Highland’s Black Student Union and actively participates in Ram Fam, a group of dedicated seniors committed to enhancing their school. These organizations tirelessly work to promote inclusivity and foster unity among students from diverse backgrounds.
It’s intriguing to consider how Gen Z embraces activism at younger ages than previous generations. A 2022 BBC article emphasized this trend, pointing out that young people today are more vocal about causes they care about; they are unafraid to advocate for the transformation they wish to see in society.
As she prepares to graduate, Hashi is keenly focused not only on her immediate goals but also on her aspirations for the future. “I’m thinking about my plans for the future, getting rid of that anxiety surrounding it,” she reflects. Currently on the pre-med track at the University of Utah, her dream is to work in public health. This aspiration is deeply rooted in her understanding of how gun violence intersects with public health issues.
For Anud, gun violence transcends being mere headlines; it is a pervasive public health crisis that afflicts communities. “Public health is what allows us to gain awareness of issues,” she stated, delving into the intricate layers that contribute to societal problems. “Especially in the educational aspect of how things are impacting us on a larger scale. There’s a way for it to make an impact on smaller communities.”
(Lien Hoa Torres) Lien Hoa Torres is a junior at Highland High School and the Culture & Community Editor at The Rambler, her school newspaper. She serves as Varsity Cheer Captain and is a member of the Highland Dance Company. She loves spending time with her family, dog, and friends.
In stories like Anud Hashi’s, we can find inspiration and a model for resilience. Her proactive approach serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, a young person’s voice can resonate and affect positive change. How might we, too, contribute to our communities and lend our voices to those yearning for a brighter future?
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
