Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 days ago
The Role the Arts Play in Social Justice Movements
When Times Change, Art Speaks.
This speech explores Nina Simone’s belief that “an artist’s duty is to reflect the times,” arguing that art is more than a reflection of society—it can be a force for resistance, empathy, and social change.
Drawing on personal experience in theatre and the challenges facing the arts and children’s media across Northern Ireland and the UK, it highlights the importance of protecting creative spaces that help young people develop their voices, understand different perspectives, and contribute to a fairer, more inclusive society.
Brooke Ewing is a 16-year-old activist, performer, and student from Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.
Brooke has been involved with the Northern Ireland Youth Assembly, the Children’s Law Centre Youth Panel, Secondary Students’ Union of Northern Ireland, and the #iWill Movement using her voice to champion the rights and experiences of young people, especially those living rurally, pushing for positive change, inclusivity, and equality.
Alongside her activism, she has performed in local theatre, where she discovered the power of storytelling to connect with audiences and spark conversation around inequality and social injustice. She is passionate about using creativity, media, and performance to help drive positive change.
The Role the Arts Play in Social Justice Movements
When Times Change, Art Speaks.
This speech explores Nina Simone’s belief that “an artist’s duty is to reflect the times,” arguing that art is more than a reflection of society—it can be a force for resistance, empathy, and social change.
Drawing on personal experience in theatre and the challenges facing the arts and children’s media across Northern Ireland and the UK, it highlights the importance of protecting creative spaces that help young people develop their voices, understand different perspectives, and contribute to a fairer, more inclusive society.
Brooke Ewing is a 16-year-old activist, performer, and student from Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.
Brooke has been involved with the Northern Ireland Youth Assembly, the Children’s Law Centre Youth Panel, Secondary Students’ Union of Northern Ireland, and the #iWill Movement using her voice to champion the rights and experiences of young people, especially those living rurally, pushing for positive change, inclusivity, and equality.
Alongside her activism, she has performed in local theatre, where she discovered the power of storytelling to connect with audiences and spark conversation around inequality and social injustice. She is passionate about using creativity, media, and performance to help drive positive change.
