Severn-Cullis Suzuki tells us about her role as an activist

vervegirl
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Which girl SPARKS your interest?
04-04-2011
Severn-Cullis Suzuki tells us about her role as an activist
By Vanessa Dullabh
Girls Action Foundation is a national organization that builds girlsʼ and young womenʼs skills, and confidence to
inspire action to change the world through their ideas. Girls Action reaches over 60,000 girls and young women and
includes rural, marginalized and urban communities, including those in the North.
March 8, marked the 100th anniversary of International Womenʼs Day. In light of this, the Girls Action Foundation
launched the LIGHT A SPARK national campaign which works towards harnessing the power of women who have
accomplished their dreams and want to make a difference for the next generation of girls!
Vervegirl caught up with Severn Cullis-Suzuki, environmentalist activist and daughter of David Suzuki. Severn has
spoken around the world about environmental issues, urging people to focus on the future generations and be
responsible. Vervegirl chat with Severn about her initiatives as a mentor for the Girls Action Foundation:
Vervegirl: Why is International Womenʼs Day so important to commemorate each year?
Severn-Cullis Suzuki: As a woman, I know we all need support and to be role models for others. This day is a
reminder of solidarity between us. We also have to remember the women that have paved the way for our present
and future.
VG: Which woman in your life is your SPARK?
SCS: It has to be all the women in my family, but if I had to choose I would say my Mom (Tara Cullis). She has lived
through the feminist era, and we have to thank women like her. I also admire my aunt (Aiko Suzuki) who passed
from breast cancer. She was an artist and well-known within the art community. These women are warriors and
have always been there to support me.
VG: In your opinion, what makes a SPARK?
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SCS: To me, a SPARK is someone original, but can also be a role model.
VG: How has your past influenced you as a woman?
SCS: I started as a young environmental activist and spoke with the UN about the importance of these issues. This
point in my life truly showed the world how powerful the youth can be. Everyone wants to make a difference, and I
feel my activism has helped me project this to future generations. This generation has the most at stake, and we
need to have justice for the youth. I have also supported marginalized communities through grassroots
organizations. Each of these experiences has helped me become the woman I am today.
VG: How are you involved with the Day of Action campaign?
SCS: I have been able to reach out to high schools and talk about social justice. At one high school, I realized how
amazing the youth is because a drama teacher had inspired her students to do a spoken-word performance on
social issues. These girls were so young and they had touched my heart. They are amazing activists, and it makes
me proud to recognize the power of youth. We all need to foster kids and look for that SPARK.
To nominate a SPARK in your life,click here and visit Girls Action Foundation
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