We the People is a blog series that features the stories of members, supporters, volunteers, and allies of the American Civil Liberties Union of North Dakota. Together we are accomplishing critical work in our state to protect and advance civil liberties across the Midwest and beyond.
Name: Sarah Parkin
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Position: Digital Communications Associate
For many people, legal documents and legislation can be pretty boring. The formal language and legal verbiage can be dry, verbose, and challenging to wade through.
But not for Sarah Parkin. “I love breaking down complex issues and making others aware of the impact they can have.”
Simplifying the political and legal jargon and making it easy to understand is a skill Sarah honed when she worked as a reporter and one that she uses every day in her new role as digital communications associate for the ACLU of North Dakota. It’s essential to understand and engage with legislation and laws, as they affect so many aspects of our lives, she says.
After all, when people better understand what’s going on, they’re more equipped to get involved in the political process. “A democracy is built on the voices of its people,” Sarah says. “When more voices are heard, the society better reflects its population.”
When did you first hear about the ACLU?
I first heard about the ACLU in college. I saw the Nebraska affiliate participating in many of the events I supported, including the big Women’s March in 2017. I knew I wanted to get involved, and I ended up working as a communications intern for the ACLU of Nebraska for a full year, which kickstarted my passion for human rights.
Which of the ACLU’s issue areas are you particularly passionate about and why?
I am very passionate about women’s rights, especially abortion access. Abortion is a health care issue, not a political one, and I don’t plan on quietly watching our bodily autonomy get stripped away from us. As a former journalist, I am also very passionate about the First Amendment and free speech. Other issue areas that light a fire in me include LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit civil liberties as well and Indigenous justice.
What is your favorite way to get involved in your community?
Collaboration! I love finding new organizations and partners and businesses to check out. I’ve met so many amazing changemakers in the community and amplifying or supporting their work is a great way to get connected.
Why do you think it’s important for people to be involved in their communities?
You live there! Who wouldn’t want a voice in their own home? Your impact doesn’t stop at the ballot box. The best communities are those built on the voices of the citizens, so make yours heard! Whether it’s just supporting organizations that align with your beliefs or even speaking out at city council or county commission meetings, you can have a huge impact on your community’s future.
How do you plan on using the work you do at the ACLU to advance civil rights and civil liberties for all North Dakotans?
Legal documents and legislation can be so boring, right? Well, not for me! I love breaking down complex issues and making others aware of the impact they can have. I also love capturing real stories, and although an issue or piece of legislation might not impact you, the same might not be true for your neighbor. Awareness and education are the pillars of my communications work. Knowledge is power, so I hope to empower our supporters!
Do you consider yourself a changemaker? Why?
I suppose so, but I think my changemaking comes from behind the scenes. I think of myself as more of a storyteller, so my changemaking comes from amplifying the voices of the impacted.
Do you have any advice for someone who might be interested in getting more politically involved in their community?
Political topics can be stressful and frustrating, and it seems easier to just ignore what is happening in Pierre or even in your own community, but your voice is just as important as the voices of elected officials. Start by following local news outlets and organizations (like the ACLU!) on social media to stay up to date with what's happening in your community and increase your awareness. Then use our knowledge to help build the future you hope to see by voting and speaking out!
Which of the Constitution’s amendments are most important to you and why?
The First Amendment! I’ve already touched on why the freedom of the press and free speech are so important to me, but freedom of religion is a big one for me, too. My religious beliefs differ from most North Dakotans, but I’ve found so much common ground with people from all sorts of religious backgrounds, which is a very beautiful thing. Top that cake off with the cherry that is the freedom to petition and freedom of assembly and you really can’t knock the First Amendment. She’s perfect.
What are you most looking forward to as a new member of the ACLU’s staff in North Dakota?
I’m looking forward to connecting with the community that this organization uplifts. Out here in the Midwest, it’s easy to feel alone in what you fight for. Fighting is much easier when you’re reminded that you’ve got support. I hope to feel that support and provide it to others while in this role.