If Someone Only Knew…

Educators! Librarians! After school programs!
This is a writing and art challenge.
This is a moment for teens ages 13-18 to be heard.
Some on this site. Others in a publication!

Author e.E. Charlton-Trujillo and Never Counted Out challenge

EVERY TEEN

in America to be heard!

On March 3, 2015, sixteen-year-old transgender youth, Ash Haffner, committed suicide. A victim of bullying, Ash left this note:

“Please be WHO YOU ARE…Do it for yourself. Do it for your happiness. That’s what matters in YOUR life. You don’t need approval on who you are. Don’t let people or society change who you are just because they’re not satisfied with your image.”

Can you be who you are?
What is stopping you from being yourself “for your happiness”?

What’s your truth?  
What story do you have to tell?
Does your truth or story make you feel alone?

In honor of Ash Haffner’s challenge, we ask ALL teens to tell your truth. Be heard. Be seen. Stop feeling alone. Write an essay or create a piece of art that answers this sentence:

If someone only knew…

In defiance of Ash’s choice of suicide, we want you to publish your story with Never Counted Out and never as a suicide note.

Suicide is never the answer.
Suicide does not make you look strong or show others how badly you feel.
Suicide doesn’t offer second chances.

Writing Truth can be your answer.
Because Words and Art are Power.
Because Words and Art offer Second Chances.

Could you words inspire others to be who they are?

Remember this is a challenge for ALL teens ages 13 – 18.

A selection of writing, art, photo, slam, and film submissions will be published to the Never Counted Out  blog. There will be a place for people to comment with ideas, resources and support. This section will be moderated to exclude unhelpful or hateful comments.

Select essays and art will be published anonymously in 2017 in a paperback anthology entitled If Someone Only Knew…

Guidelines and Submission

Poster / Flyer to Share

Press Release