I had the opportunity to have an interview with Caleb Laieski, an Inspiring Youth Leader whose compelling story propelled him to become one of the top five Finalists in the America Inspired Outstanding Youth category.
At age 17, Caleb has already experienced a lot. He was bullied in middle school only to see a dramatic increase of bullying once he started high school. Instead of giving in, he stood up, fought back, founded and became the Executive Director of his own organization, Gays and Lesbians United Against Discrimination (GLUAD) at only age 13.
As Caleb expanded his reach in Arizona, GLUAD in December 2010 reached out to 5,000 school districts in the state with a letter by putting them on notice of their obligations to protect gay and lesbian students from bullying.
In February 2011, Caleb testified before the Arizona Senate Education Committee in favor of a bill that would tackle school bullying. Shortly after, his hard work and dedication caught the attention of the White House and he was invited to several Anti-Bullying Summits in Washington, DC where he was able to take his message directly to the White House. This lead to a personal invitation from President Obama to the June 2011 Pride Reception at the White House where he met the President in person.
In October 2011, Caleb was diagnosed with Sjogren's Syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that can affect kidneys, the gastrointestinal system, blood vessels, lungs, liver, pancreas and the central nervous system. Like the bullying he has faced, he has stayed on top of this with courage and determination and won't let it get him down.
The voting has already started for America Inspired. I asked Caleb the following questions regarding his nomination as a Finalist.
Q: Many of the finalists in America Inspired have had to deal with overwhelming obstacles. What is the greatest challenge you have faced and how did you deal with it?
A: I’ve had to face a lot of bullying and resistance from public officials that are indifferent to the situation. I found the best way to deal with it is to raise public awareness on the issue, mostly through media.
Q: America Inspired is a contest that honors people who are making a difference in their communities. Tell us how you make a difference and what inspires you.
A: I make a difference by helping other youth around the country that face bullying and discrimination. Whether it be reaching out to their schools, bringing media attention to the issue or simply lending a friendly ear to the situation. I am inspired when I hear that these youth are no longer bullied and policies have been changed to be LGBT-inclusive.
Q: All finalists in the America Inspired contest have a chance at winning a $50,000 Grand Prize. If you were to win the money, what would you do with it?
A: I would buy a car, make a contribution to a few of my top charities and save up for college.
Q: What advice do you typically give to others?
A: I encourage people to always fight for what they believe is right and to never give up; "You don't stand a chance, if you don't take a chance"
Q: Who has been the most inspirational person to you?
A: Secretary Sebelius, as her commitment to our youth and safe schools is incredible and very inspiring.
Q: How can other people get involved or give to your cause?
A: By making sure they are speaking out, when someone needs to act.
Voting for America Inspired continues through January 27th at midnight MST. I encourage everyone to click on the link below and support Caleb as an Outstanding Youth!
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