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Listen to our students in Paradise Place ETNS and how their are not just students, but changemakers.

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Paradise Place Educate Together National School | Activism Project

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Guide for Research and Activism in Educate Together schools

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Sustainable Development Goals Explorer

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Sustainable Development Goals Explorer Browse Resources by SDG Have you ever wanted to browse through a resource based on whether the SDGs are directly or indirectly included - in a booklet, a short film, an issue-based activity pack or an NGO report? Say hello, to the Sustainable Development Goals Explorer.

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Carrigaline ETNS, 2025

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Fridays for Future, Educate Together, 2019

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More Than a Toy Swap: How Students Lead Change

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More Than a Toy Swap: How Students Lead Change

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This student‑designed Toy Swap shows what happens when children lead the way. The accompanying 5‑Must analysis breaks down the elements that make this initiative a powerful example of purposeful activism (2025).

School: Claregalway ETNS

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A 2021 film from EJNI narrated by John Spillane.

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Film: Rights of Nature with John Spillane | Manual for Environmental Justice

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A 2021 film from EJNI narrated by John Spillane. Directed by Dr Peter Doran (QUB) and Lynda Sullivan and produced and edited by Simon Woods. Executive producer: Ciara Brennan.

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Global Village's Padlet full of resources about Global Citizenship Education (GCE), organised by subject areas and curriculum links

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Definition, Types, Role, Examples, Importance.

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What is activism: definition

When we observe practices that cause harm, we feel obliged to speak up. Whether we're concerned about the burning of fossil fuels, animal abuse through factory farming, or the ill-treatment of refugees, by demanding change we have the power to create a different, better world. Simply put, activism refers to action taken challenging those in power to bring about change in society and benefit the greater good.

What types of activism are there?

Activists challenge the status quo by use their voice to bring about social, political, economic or environmental reform. There is no single way to conduct activism - any collective action which draws attention to an issue constitutes activism. At its core, activism is about highlighting injustices and advocating for a better future. While traditional forms of activism include demonstrations and protests, activists often resort to non-conventional or disruptive forms of activism if their earlier efforts are ignored.

Demonstrations and protests

One of the most common types of activism is demonstrations and protests. When people come together and rally around a united cause, it sends a strong message to the government that this is an issue the public cares about. Demonstrations can take lots of forms, from marching on the streets, public sit-ins, or picketing. Sometimes shocking tactics are used to increase the pressure, such as demonstrators protesting naked or chaining themselves to a tree.

Strikes

Strike action is a form of activism in which employees refuse to perform their work to protest workplace grievances. It became a popular form of protest during and after the Industrial Revolution when members of the industrial working class, from coal miners to factory and cotton mill workers, put down their tools and demanded better pay and work conditions. Often organised by trade unions, striking legitimises the requests made by union representatives and gives them bargaining power during negotiations with the employer. While there is now talk of a 4-day work week, the 40-hour work week was a result of a lengthy labour reform movement in the United States whose activism strateghy included national strikes.

A form of economic activism, a boycott is a non-violent protest in which people collectively choose not to engage with an activity, event, organisation, country or person that is engaging in exploitative behaviour. For example, Boycott, Divestment, Sanction (BDS) is a movement led by Palestinians calling on citizens, organisations, institutions and governments globally to put economic pressure on Israel to end the oppression of Palestine by withdrawing commercial and social support. Corporations are encouraged not to trade with Israeli businesses and artists are asked not to perform in Israel.

Boycotting is a type of activism you can practise on a daily basis when you go shopping. Simple acts like choosing to buy fair trade coffee beans instead of Nestlé, or buying clothes from ethical clothing brands instead of Shein channels your consumer buying power for good.

Online campaigns

To convince those in power to stand up against injustice, the sway of public opinion can go a long way. Sending emails, posting on social media and signing petitions shows public officials, corporations and other power-holders that people are invested in a cause and sends the message that their popularity will be impacted if they don't take heed. This is a form of mandate building, because it demonstrates that the public supports a certain course of action and legitimises the demand for reform. The more engagement, the stronger the pressure.

Civil disobedience

Civil disobedience is a form of protest with a long tradition in which protestors intentionally break the law in order to highlight injustices or bring about a change in law/policy. Protestors who engage in this type of activism willingly risk facing personal consequences such as being fined or arrested as a means of demonstrating their commitment to the cause. In recent years, environmental movements such as The Extinction Rebellion or Just Stop Oil have gained public attention for their unconventional protests which include blocking traffic, disrupting high-profile sporting events and throwing food at famous works of art.

Protest art

Artists often use their work to stimulate discussions about important social and political issues, particularly if their fame gives them a platform to reach the masses. One famous example is Sinead O'Connor's protest against the covering-up of the child sexual abuse by ripping the photograph of Pope John Paul II after her performance on Saturday Night Live. Keith Haring made art addressing the AIDs crisis and he designed posters which were used at anti-nuclear and anti-apartheid demonstrations.

Activist movements: Examples

Throughout history, activist movements have protested injustice and demanded equal rights for everyone in society. Many of the civil liberties we enjoy today were fought for tooth and nail by activist movements who challenged the concentration of power, wealth and freedom.

Gender equality

The feminist movement has been campaigning for women's rights since the mid-19th century. Beginning with the right to vote in 1848, feminists have sought to end the treatment of women as second class citizens by overturning legal inequalities. Its focus has included a wide range of issues, from workplace equality, reproductive rights, sexual liberation, intersectionality, gender-based violence and discrimination.

Human rights

The mission of human rights defenders is to ensure that everyone's human rights are respected. If governments, corporations or powerful individuals violate our rights, they engage in activism to draw attention to the violation and to demand reform. This kind of activism can focus on an issue that directly affect broader society, such as protecting the independence of the media or freedom of expression. It can also focus on issues which affect marginalised communities, who are deprived of proper enjoyment of their rights due to discrimination and mistreatment.

Racial equality

The movement to end racial inequality emerged from the civil rights movement, which can be traced back to to the 1950s in the United States and was in response to the unequal treatment of black people. It was a time during which racism was built into the legal system, as black Americans were deprived of basic civil racism, and there were laws which permitted discrimination and racial segregation. Modern racial inequality movements have focused on police brutality, violence, discrimination, racism and racial injustice experienced by BIPOC (black, indigineous and other people of colour) communities.

Climate change

The climate movement seeks to put pressure on governments and industries to take action to curb the impact of climate change. With rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns, the impact of climate change, which is primarily a result of the burning of fossil fuels, its impact poses a huge risk to humans and the environment. Climate change activists such as Greta Thunberg advocate centre climate justice in their message, which argues that those most responsible for climate change should also contribute the most to addressing the problem.

Social justice

Social justice activists aim to address inequalities and discrimination in society by focusing on political or social issues. Social justice movements can focus on the grievances of a particular social group, or it can focus on a particular issue such as housing or anti-war. A key demand of social justice activism is the fair distribution of resources and the restructuring of societal structures which produce and perpetuate inequalities. The goal of social justice movements is a fair and equal society.

Who are activists? What are the roles of activists?

It is a misconception that in order to be an activist, you need to be an expert on a topic or working in a professional capacity. Anyone who cares about a cause and participates in collective action to bring about change is considered an activist. Within a collective movement, there are many different roles that activists can take on to be effective in achieving their mission.

Citizens: Citizens who engage in activism play an important role because they embody the democratic values that ordinary citizens should be actively involved in political decision-making. Ideally, citizen activists will support social movements that benefit the common good, rather than only supporting causes that advance their personal interests.

Reformer: Typically, the reformer will try to create change from the inside by using existing institutions to achieve their movement's goals. Lobbying, advocacy, referenda and rallies are the preferred methods of activism of the reformer.

Rebel: The rebel, on the other hand, works outside the system and challenges violations of shared values. They bring issues into the public arena, and their reform demands target power holders such as governments and institutions.

Change agent: The change agent is an activist responsible for ensuring that the public is educated about social issues and involving ordinary citizens in the change-making process. This type of activism mobilises the whole of society and relies on the collaboration of pre-existing grassroots movements with mass bases.

Liberties shouts when your human rights are at risk. Stay informed, sign up

How does activism impact society?

Many of the most important social and political revolutions that occurred in history are the outcome of activism. From the abolishment of slavery, women being granted equal rights to the toppling of dictatorships, change that was once unthinkable became reality because of the courage, vision and commitment of activists.

Activists often emerge from disenfranchised social groups and play an important role getting their causes onto the public agenda. Because they operate at the heart of the communities, they can provide a detailed and nuanced insight into how a particular people are directly affected by an issue and propose impactful solutions. This creates a bridge between the population and political leaders and ensures the perspectives of marginalised communities are considered during political decision-making.

As they typically operate outside systems of power, activists keep checks and balances on powerholders. Their role is to ensure that governments, corporations and powerful individuals act in the best interest of the many, rather than an elite few. The climate change movement is a powerful example of activists holding political leaders and businesses accountable for their harmful impact on society and pressurising them to put the welfare of people and the planet ahead of profits.
What Is Freedom of Assembly and How Is the Situation in Europe? What are Civil Rights: Definition, Origins, Movements, Present Situation Civil Disobedience and Its Effects in Recent History Through 12 Examples

Photo credits:
Flickr/
Randy aka Randolfe Wicker
AppaIoosa
Jornal Brasil em Folhas
GPA Photo Archive

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What is Activism: Definition, Types, Role, Examples, Importance

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What is activism? What types of activism are there? What role does activism play? Why is activism important? How does it impact society?

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Malala and teen activists on learning to speak out (2019).

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Malala and teen activists on learning to speak out

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This global version of ‘War/No More Trouble’ brings musicians from around the world together to call for peace, unity, and an end to violence. Through shared voices and collaborative music‑making, it highlights our collective responsibility to build a more just and compassionate world.

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War/No More Trouble feat. Bono | Playing for Change | Song Around The World

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Prohibido Olvidar’ is a powerful call to remember past injustices so they are not repeated. Rubén Blades urges listeners to stay alert, question abuses of power, and defend democracy through collective memory and civic responsibility.

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PROHIBIDO OLVIDAR (Lyrics in English) - Rubén Blades

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Rubén Blades - Prohibido Olvidar English translation: Prohibieron ir a la escuela e ir a la universidad / Prohibieron las garantías y el fin constitucional / Prohibieron todas las ciencias, excepto la militar. /

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Animated short-film (2009). Icon of Latin American social cinema due to its strong critique of water privatisation and the exploitation of natural resources, making a clear allusion to the Cochabamba Water War (Guerra del Agua) in Bolivia in 2000.

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A Change Is Gonna Come’ is a soulful anthem of hope and perseverance in the face of injustice. Sam Cooke expresses both the pain of discrimination and a deep belief that social change and equality will eventually prevail.

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Sam Cooke - A Change Is Gonna Come (Official Lyric Video)

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Mama África’ is a song that portrays the daily struggles of a Black working mother in Brazil, highlighting themes of inequality, resilience, and the invisible labour that sustains society. Through a warm yet critical narrative, Chico Buarque exposes structural injustices while honouring her strength and dignity.

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Chico César - Mama Africa (English translation #2)

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Chico César - Mama Africa lyrics (Portuguese) + English translation: Mama Afri

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Zombie’ by Fela Kuti is a powerful protest song that condemns the Nigerian military, criticising soldiers who blindly follow orders without thought, conscience, or questioning. Through sharp satire and repetition, the song exposes the dangers of uncritical obedience and authoritarian control.

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Sólo le pido a Dios’ is a heartfelt plea against injustice, violence, and indifference. Through its simple, powerful verses, the song calls for compassion, courage, and a refusal to remain passive in the face of suffering.

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Solo le pido a Dios por Mercedes Sosa (English subtitles)

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Get Up, Stand Up’ is a powerful anthem calling people to defend their rights and resist oppression. Through its urgent rhythm and direct message, Bob Marley urges listeners to stay conscious, challenge injustice, and refuse passive acceptance.

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Bob Marley -  Get Up Stand Up (LYRICS) Remastered

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Movimiento’ is a poetic reflection on human migration and constant change, celebrating movement as the essence of life. Drexler connects personal, historical, and global journeys to show that identity is always evolving and deeply intertwined with the movement of people across time and place.

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Jorge Drexler   Movimiento (English Captions)

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Explore the root causes of global issues and implement collective solutions to transform them.

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Claregalway ETNS, 2025

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Educate Together's Activism Project: Claregalway ETNS Toy Swap

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UN - SDGs, Climate Action Super Hero

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Global Action Plan. Resources to reduce environmental impact.

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Teacher Toolkit by Global Action Plan (2021)

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Useful ideas for environmental activism

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Global Citizenship Education in the school

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Global Citizenship Education in the school

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Cork ETSS offers a strong example of how Global Citizenship Education can be thoughtfully integrated into the curriculum while remaining rooted in the Educate Together Ethos (2025).

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WorldWise Global Schools in Action - Cork ETSS

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Eco Activism for Junior Primary Students

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Eco Activism for Junior Primary Students

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Climate Action for Junior Primary Students, from Green-Schools Ireland

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Climate Activism and Direct Action by Global Action Plan (2023)

In this workshop your students will explore climate action and climate activism; identify different ‘types’ of activism; discuss the ethical implications of climate activism and of inaction, debating whether there is a moral imperative to engage in climate action; and formulate a way in which they could be activists.

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Why Aren’t We All Activists? - Climate Activism and Direct Action

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Introducing Our Global Citizenship Education Officer - Educate Together

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Meet our new Global Citizenship Education Officer dedicated to fostering global awareness and informed action in our community.

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Strategies for Sparking Impactful Ideas that Engage the Entire School Community - Green Schools Ireland

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Want to plan your water actions but not sure where to begin? Use this resource for inspiration!

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Through mindfulness, storytelling, reflection, expression and action students will end by making a picture of a tree and uploading it to a virtual forest showing their commitment to being Nature Positive.

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In this creative lesson, students will be taken through 5 engagements that aim to extend student learning on the theme of Nature Positive. Through mindfulness, storytelling, reflection, expression and action students will end by making a picture of a tree and uploading it to a virtual forest showing their commitment to being Nature Positive.

The lesson plan is conceptualised, created and designed by Slam Out Loud in partnership with World's Largest Lesson, supported by Global Commons Alliance.

Activities

Ages 8-14 - (Upper Primary/lower secondary/middle school )

Protecting Planet Earth

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Youth Action for Nature and Well-Being

Pedagogy Design Guide

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Global Action Plan, 2023

How climate activism is represented in the media?

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Become an activist for the Global Goals. Designed for children from 8 to 14.

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Become a Fact-ivist for Global Goals | Use Data to Make Change

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Join the Fact-ivist movement and empower global change through data. We promote use of the Sustainable Development Goals in learning so that children can contribute to a better future for all. From citizenship and justice to climate change and the environment, inspire children to make a difference!

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Planet Leader Flossie Donnelly

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July Young Planet Leader Flossie Donnelly — HEAL THE PLANET

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Global Citizenship programme, with curriculum-linked lesson plans, including wellbeing activities, videos and worksheets suitable for in-person and virtual spaces, to explore Global Citizenship and inspire meaningful action.

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GOAL's Global Citizenship team have carefully designed creative, curriculum-linked lesson plans, including wellbeing activities, videos and worksheets suitable for in-person and virtual spaces, to help primary school teachers explore Global Citizenship with their 1st - 6th class students and inspire action for a sustainable and fair world, even in a remote setting.

All support materials are readily available here on our website, in both English and Irish, to help teachers navigate their pupils through this uncertain time while fostering empathy, solidarity, and inspiring action for a brighter future for all.

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GOAL Changemakers Resources to help children learn about the 17 UN Global Goals

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Kindness: A Development Education Resource for Senior Primary, by Trocaire. Check out the Activity 14: "Take Action!".

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Arauco Tiene una Pena’ is a powerful protest song that denounces the historical and ongoing oppression of the Mapuche people in Chile. Through vivid storytelling, Violeta Parra exposes injustice, honours Indigenous resistance, and calls attention to the enduring struggle for dignity and rights.

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[ENGLISH SUBTITLES] Arauco has a sorrow / Arauco tiene una pena

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Irish Women in Activism and Advocacy - DevelopmentEducation.ie

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Explore inspiring stories of Irish women in activism and advocacy who fought for human rights, social justice, and equality at home & abroad

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Irish youth Activism and the Climate Crisis with Beth Doherty

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Irish youth Activism and the Climate Crisis with Beth Doherty

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Beth Doherty: Youth Activism and the Climate Crisis - DevelopmentEducation.ie

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Beth Doherty shares her climate activism journey from school strikes in Ireland to youth advocacy at COP29

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Global Artivism harnesses the power of arts and culture to drive systemic change. We bring together artists, activists, and allies across the globe to build the power of artists in social movements, shift culture, and mobilize for global justice and a thriving planet.

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Gaisce Glas, 13 sessions guide.

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Community Activism for Junior Primary Students

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Community Activism for Junior Primary Students

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We Only Want the Earth. Exploring Creative Community Action. A Global Justice Infant Teaching Resource. Written by Dr Tríona Stokes and Produced by Galway One World Centre.

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Show Racism the Red Card: Learning activities and actions to increase awareness in a whole-school approach.

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Learning Activities and Actions on Children’s Rights for Children in Junior Infants and Senior Infants.

Ombudsman for Children

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Amnesty International

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Amnesty International's Write for Rights campaign transforms the lives of people whose rights have been wronged.

Write for Rights supporters are united by their desire to make a difference. In recent years, we've seen real change to people's lives because of your action. From Zimbabwe to Guatemala, activists have been released and justice delivered.

This year's campaign features people from around the world, all connected because their human rights have been violated. Some by their governments, others by the police, or by big corporations. All because of who they are and what they do.

Together, we can fight for their rights.

Join Write for Rights today.

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Amnesty International's Write for Rights campaign transforms the lives of people whose rights have been wronged. Write for Rights supporters are united by their desire to make a difference. In recent years, we've seen real change to people's lives because of your action. From Zimbabwe to Guatemala, activists have been released and justice delivered.

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'Our House Is on Fire. Greta Thunberg's Call to Save the Planet'

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'Our House Is on Fire. Greta Thunberg's Call to Save the Planet'

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Book

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Learn the story of TIME PERSON OF THE YEAR Greta Thunberg, the sixteen-year-old climate activist who has sparked a worldwide student movent and is demanding action from world leaders who refuse to address climate change-from acclaimed picture book creator Jeanette Winter.

I don't want you to be hopeful. I want you to panic...I want you to act as if our house is on fire. Because it is.

When she was fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg's teacher explained to her class that our climate is changing-the earth is getting warmer, the polar ice caps are melting, and life on earth is threatened. Greta was devastated. What could she do? If the grown-ups weren't doing enough to save the planet, Greta would have to demand change herself.

So she went on strike, skipping school every Friday to sit outside of the Swedish Parliament building with a sign that read "School Strike for Climate." At first, Greta was the only one. But gradually, more and more students joined her, until her lone protest had sparked a worldwide student movement for action on climate change.

Now, a year later, Greta is speaking to audiences of world leaders at important meetings like the United Nations Climate Conference and the World Economic Forum. She is leading the conversation on climate change and sparking worldwide conversation on how to save our planet. Greta is showing everyone that even the smallest person can make a big difference, and this picture book informs and inspires young readers who are beginning to learn about the world around them.

Jeanette Winter is a celebrated picture book creator whose acclaimed works include Diego; Oil; and The Secret Project, all written by Jonah Winter, and her own Sisters: Venus & Serena Williams; The World Is Not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid; Nanuk the Ice Bear; Malala, a Brave Girl from Pakistan/Iqbal, a Brave Boy from Pakistan: Two Stories of Bravery; Henri's Scissors; Biblioburro: A True Story from Colombia; Nasreen's Secret School: A True Story from Afghanistan; and The Librarian of Basra: A True Story from Iraq.

Jeanette Winter is a celebrated picture book creator whose acclaimed works include Diego; Oil; and The Secret Project, all written by Jonah Winter, and her own Sisters: Venus & Serena Williams; The World Is Not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid; Nanuk the Ice Bear; Malala, a Brave Girl from Pakistan/Iqbal, a Brave Boy from Pakistan: Two Stories of Bravery; Henri's Scissors; Biblioburro: A True Story from Colombia; Nasreen's Secret School: A True Story from Afghanistan; and The Librarian of Basra: A True Story from Iraq.

Publisher: Beach Lane Books (September 24, 2019)

Length: 40 pages

ISBN13: 9781534467781

Grades: P - 3

Ages: 3 and up

Lexile ® 680L

Fountas & Pinnell™ M

Browse Related Books

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Learn the story of TIME PERSON OF THE YEAR Greta Thunberg, the sixteen-year-old climate activist who has sparked a worldwide student movent and is demanding action from world leaders who refuse to address climate change-from acclaimed picture book creator Jeanette Winter. I don't want you to be hopeful.

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For young readers about what it means to be a citizen and the positive role they can play in society.

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Empowering and timeless, What Can a Citizen Do? is the latest collaboration from the acclaimed duo behind the bestselling Her Right Foot: Dave Eggers and Shawn Harris. This is a book for today’s youth about what it means to be a citizen.

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The story of Human Rights heores

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Our latest children's book combines the words of human rights heroes such as Nelson Mandela, the Dalai Lama, Anne Frank, Chief Standing Bear and Malala Yousafzai with beautiful illustrations from international artists including Oliver Jeffers and Chris Riddell.
Buy Dreams of Freedom
This inspirational book empowers children across the world to explore our hard-won rights and understand how precious they are. It follows on from Amnesty's award-winning We Are All Born Free.

'Dreams of Freedom is a feast of visual stories - brave words and beautiful pictures, woven together to inspire young readers to stand up for others and to make a difference. It gives me great hope for the freedom of future generations.'
Michael Morpurgo

Chickenshed Theatre

Amnesty worked closely with Chickenshed Theatre on Dreams of Freedom to deepen children's understanding through drama. Drama workshops with over a thousand children enabled them to explore what freedom means and express their ideas for a better future. This culminated with a spectacular performance at the Royal Albert Hall in June 2017, with live drawing by Amnesty Ambassador, Chris Riddell.

Angelina Jolie sent a special video message to the children on the night, celebrating their rights and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

For children to build their own capacity to make positive change, they need to feel empowered. Exploring other people's stories helps them make sense of the world and gives them confidence to express their own thoughts and opinions.

'To achieve great things, we must dream as well as do.'
Anatole France

In children's words

Our partnership with Chickenshed Theatre began when the book was first launched and Chickenshed ran a drama workshop for children to explore and dramatise the words of these human rights heroes.

Latest reviews

'A kaleidoscopic vision of what a just world might look like.'

'A tremendous and moving book in which illustrators, including Chris Riddell, Ros Asquith, Roger Mello from Brazil, Jackie Morris and Australian Sally Morgan, accompany marvellously diverse and thought-provoking quotations about freedom. It is a most inspiring read and what impresses one is the sense the book gives of there being many different versions of freedom - it is not, ever, just another word for nothing left to lose.

'Jackie Morris has drawn a songbird in a gilded cage with a tigerish cat breathing through its golden bars to illustrate Nadia Anjuman's cry: "Oh, I will love the day when I break out of this cage, Escape this solitary exile and sing wildly." (Suitable for all ages and every household.)'
The Observer, 12 April 2015

This book looks so beautiful @birgittasif @amnesty @Frances_Lincoln @OliverJeffers #dreamsoffreedom pic.twitter.com/5Ja7M8cH8S "

- aclassofmyown (@classofmyownNQT) February 27, 2015

Dreams of Freedom in beautiful words and pictures http://t.co/1R1IlQQGDI @AmnestyUK a gallery to share and savour pic.twitter.com/mXlpTdkQSt

- GdnChildrensBooks (@GdnChildrensBks) February 11, 2015

LOVE the quotes in this: Dreams of Freedom in words and pictures http://t.co/6nh5s2H8ML

- Katie Krafka (@KKrafka) February 18, 2015

Inspirational words on human rights, combined with beautiful illustrations in Dreams of freedom http://t.co/6wIBWyIKsE

- LP Library (@LPLibrarian) February 14, 2015

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Our latest children's book combines the words of human rights heroes such as Nelson Mandela, the Dalai Lama, Anne Frank, Chief Standing Bear and Malal

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'Wilma’s Way Home: The Life of Wilma Mankiller'

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'Wilma’s Way Home: The Life of Wilma Mankiller'

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Indigenous activist

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Wilma’s Way Home: The Life of Wilma Mankiller by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Linda Kukuk

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Published by Disney-Hyperion Summary: Growing up in Oklahoma, as one of eleven children, Wilma Mankiller knew her family was poor. She was happy, though, spending a lot of time outdoors and with …

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The story of Janet Collins, African-American challenged racial discrimination.

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A lyrical picture book biography of Janet Collins, the first African American principal dancer at the Metropolitan Opera House. Janet Collins wanted to be a…

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The story of Rosa Parks, civil rights campaigner.

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Set in the present day, Rosa's Bus tells the story of an old man and his young nephew visiting the Henry Ford Museum in Michigan. Rosa Parks, now a respected civil rights activist, was travelling to work in her hometown of Montgomery, Alabama, when she was ordered to give her seat to a white man. She refused and in doing so made a brave stand against racism, a stand that is recollected here, in this powerful picture book.

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Set in the present day, Rosa's Bus tells the story of an old man and his young nephew visiting the Henry Ford Museum in Michigan. Rosa Parks, now a respected civil rights activist, was travelling to work in her hometown of Montgomery, Alabama, when she was ordered to give her seat to a white man....

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The story of an African-American that challenged women's rights.

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The inspiring story of NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson (the subject of the hit movie Hidden Figures). Katherine Johnson grew up during a time when wo…

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The story of Wangari Muta Maathai, an African environmental activist.

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NAACP Image Award Nominee “In a word, stunning.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)Through artful prose and beautiful illustrations, Donna Jo Napoli…

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'Rachel Carson: Preserving a Sense of Wonder'

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'Rachel Carson: Preserving a Sense of Wonder'

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Environmental activist

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'Twenty-two Cents, Muhammad Yunus and the Village Bank'

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'Twenty-two Cents, Muhammad Yunus and the Village Bank'

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La historia del clavadista olímpico Sammy Lee (The Story of Olympic Diver Sammy Lee)By Paula Yoo

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A biography of 2006 Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, who revolutionized global antipoverty efforts by developing the innovative economic concept of micro-lending.

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'Young Water Protectors: A Story About Standing Rock'

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'Young Water Protectors: A Story About Standing Rock'

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Reviewed by Debbie Reese

Review Source: American Indians in Children's Literature
Book Author: Aslan Tudor, Kelly Tudor

Aslan and Kelly Tudor's Young Water Protectors: A Story About Standing Rock is a non-fiction photo-essay published by EagleSpeaker Publishing.

The "about" page tells us that the author, Aslan Tudor, was eight and nine years old during the period depicted in the book, and a citizen of the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas. Information provided is his first-hand account of time spent at the camps when he was there in 2016.

Told from the point of view of a child, Young Water Protectors is a rare kind of story of a unique period of activism with Native people from so many nations standing together to fight a company exploiting people and hurting earth's resources. Continue reading.

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Young Water Protectors: A Story About Standing Rock - Social Justice Books

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Reviewed by Debbie Reese Review Source: American Indians in Children's Literature Book Author: Aslan and Kelly Tudor's Young Water Protectors: A Story About Standing Rock is a non-fiction photo-essay published by EagleSpeaker Publishing. The "about" page tells us that the author, Aslan Tudor, was eight and nine years old during the period depicted in the book, and [...]

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Praise for Papa Put a Man on the Moon

"Green illustrates in unguarded, jewel-toned images that bring the story warmth and intimacy. . . . Through a child's perspective, Dempsey and Green brightly convey how ordinary Americans became part of history." - Publishers Weekly

"A highly recommended purchase for any library, this book has a unique perspective on how every little piece works together to accomplish something great." - School Library Journal

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Papa Put a Man on the Moon by Kristy Dempsey: 9780525554493 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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In time for the fiftieth anniversary of the moon landing, this father-daughter story celebrates a small community's big contribution to one of America's greatest accomplishments. Marthanne and her father...

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'Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag'

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'Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag'

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Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag by Rob Sanders: 9780399555312 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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JUNIOR LIBRARY GUILD SELECTION • Celebrate Pride and it’s iconic rainbow flag--a symbol of inclusion and acceptance around the world-- with the very first picture book to tell its remarkable…

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'Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez'

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'Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez'

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Review by: Rae Quintero

This book is a biography of the famous Cesar Chavez who was the leader of a civil rights group for farmworkers called the National Association for Farm Workers in the early 1940s. As a young boy living on a ranch with his family, Cesar has to move because of a drought that was occurring which limited the amount of food being available for workers to farm. Leading Cesar's family to explore West into California where cropping was booming. Cesar experienced hatred and racism in his classroom which led him to hate school, but he found joy in learning new things. As Cesar begins his life into adulthood, he begins to notice harsh working conditions and the wage decreases for the farming community. He forms a group of members around the time of harvesting grapes which is a big problem for most fruit companies because the grapes will overripe and spoil if not harvested within a certain timeframe. With that knowledge, Cesar decided to march with hundreds of other farmers peacefully from one part of California to the Capital in order to seek assistance from the government. Others who believed in the movement joined the NFWA and this association grew from hundreds to thousands. In the end, Cesar gained ten-thousand marchers as well as recognition from all major media outlets including companies who could not take the negative publicity anymore. Chavez became a voice to discuss better wages and conditions proposals; he accepted and signed the first farmworker contract in American History.

I believe that this picture book creates a place of imagination for young readers to explore in their adventures to understand their culture and the impact that positive social leaders such as Cesar Chavez can have on a large group of people that are fighting for one cause. This bibliography is one that I can relate to as a person who comes from a LatinX background. My bachelor's degree in history leads me to connect how Cesar Chavez showed a vast amount of courage to protest non-violently against land-owners for their mistreatment of the immigrants. His activist work can be compared to Martin Luther King Jr., and the SCLC who supported African-Americans in the fight against segregation and racism during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. From a multicultural perspective, this narrative is inspiring and motivating for educators to use as a research tool into lesson plans that unite people under one underlying cause that affects an entire community. I would also like to suggest making multiple cultural connections to other non-violent civil rights movements that have happened in our world history, such as Nelson Mandela's role in South Africa. Lastly, I enjoyed this picture book because it opened up my eyes to see the negative/positive impact that education can have on students. Cesar's teacher demeaned his identity but it only filled Cesar with the hope that one day he would unite the people who 'speak Spanish' and make history for generations to come. I think this book represents cultural differences by exposing the Spanish vocabulary into the text, such as, "Si Se Puede" and then perhaps having an open conversation about how those Spanish phrases can mean the same in any culture if it is said with meaning to make a positive change in the world. This book advocates for cultural differences because of the exposure to these Latin words, such as "La Causa", "San Joaquin" that are bolded show a significance in Latin culture and the language they use to celebrate their history

Rae Quintero is a kindergarten teacher and she is pursuing her M.Ed in Literacy Education. I love picturebooks!

in Reviews. Tags: Biography, Picturebook

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Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez (2003). Kathleen Krull and Yuyi Morales (illus.).

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Review by: Rae Quintero This book is a biography of the famous Cesar Chavez who was the leader of a civil rights group for farmworkers called the National Association for Farm Workers in the early 1940s. As a young boy living on a ranch with his family, Cesar has to move because of a drought...

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The Story of Young Frederick Douglass.

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The inspirational, true story of how Frederick Douglass found his way to freedom one word at a time.This picture book biography chronicles the yout…

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Suitable for primary

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A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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This bestselling ABC book is written and illustrated for the next generation of progressives: families who want their kids to grow up in a space that is unapologetic about activism, environmental justice,...

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Suitable for 5th / 6th class

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Inspired by true events, One Hen tells the story of Kojo, a boy from Ghana who turns a small loan into a thriving farm and a livelihood for many.#After his father died, Kojo had to quit school to help his mother collect firewood to sell at the market. When his mother receives a loan from some village families, she gives a little money to her son. With this tiny loan, Kojo buys a hen.#A year later, Kojo has built up a flock of 25 hens. With his earnings Kojo is able to return to school. Soon Kojo’s farm grows to become the largest in the region.#Kojo’s story is inspired by the life of Kwabena Darko, who as a boy started a tiny poultry farm just like Kojo’s, which later grew to be the largest in Ghana, and one of the largest in west Africa. Kwabena also started a trust that gives out small loans to people who cannot get a loan from a bank.#One Hen shows what happens when a little help makes a big difference. The final pages of One Hen explain the microloan system and include a list of relevant organizations for children to explore.#One Hen is part of CitizenKid: A collection of books that inform children about the world and inspire them to be better global citizens.

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Suitable for Junior classes

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Celebrate twenty-five years of a tale of sweet justice in this anniversary edition.Farmer Duck is no ordinary duck. He cooks and cleans, tends the fields, an…

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Child participation in sustainable development (2022).

School: Carlow ETNS

Contact: Mark O'Brien

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Child Participation - Mark O' Brien Carlow ET

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One small idea. One big result: Pancake Tuesday Fundraiser

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One small idea. One big result: Pancake Tuesday Fundraiser

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Student-led fundraiser in response to the bush fires in Australia (2020).

School: Esker ETNS

Contact:

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One small idea. One big result: Pancake Tuesday Fundraiser.

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Our Pupils’ Council and Green school Committees were approached by Maryia C. (6th Class) who was very concerned about the plight of people, animals and the landscape in Australia as a result of…

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Students join Pride, raising awareness in LGTBQ+ rights (2021).

School: Glasnevin ETNS

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Pride is a month-long colourful festival dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community. It began as a protest about discrimination in 1969, but has since become a celebration marked with parades and @moscannail caught up with one school in Co Dublin who were proudly parading. https://t.co/9poLY8RkRK

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Pride is a month-long colourful festival dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community. It began as a protest about discrimination in 1969, but has since become a celebration marked with parades and @moscannail caught up with one school in Co Dublin who were proudly parading. https://t.co/9poLY8RkRK

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Pride is a month-long colourful festival dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community. It began as a protest about discrimination in 1969, but has since become a celebration marked with parades and @moscannail caught up with one school in Co Dublin who were proudly parading. pic.twitter.com/9poLY8RkRK
— RTÉ news2day (@news2dayRTE) June 24, 2021

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Pride is a month-long colourful festival dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community. It began as a protest about discrimination in 1969, but has since become a celebration marked with parades and @moscannail caught up with one school in Co Dublin who were proudly parading. https://t.co/9poLY8RkRK

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props.original_text
Pride is a month-long colourful festival dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community. It began as a protest about discrimination in 1969, but has since become a celebration marked with parades and @moscannail caught up with one school in Co Dublin who were proudly parading. https://t.co/9poLY8RkRK

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props.text
Pride is a month-long colourful festival dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community. It began as a protest about discrimination in 1969, but has since become a celebration marked with parades and @moscannail caught up with one school in Co Dublin who were proudly parading. https://t.co/9poLY8RkRK

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This is a great opportunity to join a network with other schools and to act collectively in the urgent issues.

Galway ETNS and Limerick School Project NS are members, in case you need more information.

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The student guide aims to gather students’ ideas in a clear and engaging way. It’s designed to be flexible — you can use it individually, in small groups, in class, or through the student council. Students can respond in whatever format works best for them, and please feel free to adapt it to suit your school.

With the deadline on 28 Feb 2026, if you send me the completed guides beforehand, I’ll gladly organise the ideas and prepare them for submission. This could be a really meaningful moment for civic engagement and activism in your school.

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Latinoamérica’ is a powerful anthem celebrating the resilience, diversity, and dignity of Latin American peoples, while denouncing colonialism, exploitation, and inequality. Through vivid imagery and political clarity, Calle 13 honours collective identity and resistance across the region.

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Calle 13 - Latinoamérica (NEW English Subtitles)

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As teachers, we play a vital role in helping children grow into active citizens who can understand the world around them and take part in shaping it. Supporting pupils to engage with social justice issues requires us to stay informed, reflective and intentional in our practice.

To guide children through complex global challenges, we need clarity about the kind of world we are helping to create. This means grounding our teaching in fairness, solidarity and shared responsibility, and modelling the values we hope to inspire in our pupils. When we do this, we empower children not only to understand problems, but to imagine and build solutions together.

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The day the obvious was “discovered” - Latinoamérica 21

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Analysis L21 | That growth without limits destroys life is nothing new. The day the obvious was “discovered.”