Ms. Rachel’s Advocacy: Teaching Kids to Speak for Justice and Equality

Ms. Rachel: Teaching Words That Matter in a World That Needs Change

In a world often beset by injustice and conflict, teaching children simple words with profound meanings can seem like a small but important act of hope. This is a mission embodied by Rachel Griffin Accurso, known to many as Ms. Rachel, whose videos not only engage toddlers but also carry messages of justice and advocacy.

Within the walls of a rectory, two asylum-seeking parents and their Canadian-born child made their temporary home. As the child grew, so did the need for content that would not only entertain but also educate. Enter Ms. Rachel, whose YouTube videos became a staple in their home. “Can you say mama?” she asks in one of her videos, a question that resonates with simplicity yet is profoundly impactful.

As these moments unfolded, the backdrop of global issues loomed large. Questions about the world’s injustices — from the ongoing conflict in Palestine to the resurgence of anti-Black racism — weighed heavily. In this context, Ms. Rachel’s question took on a liturgical significance, prompting reflections on what else we might teach children to say to shape a more just future.

Ms. Rachel’s influence extends beyond her videos. She is a vocal advocate on various fronts, from opposing anti-Black racism to supporting children in conflict zones like Gaza. Her July interview with National Catholic Reporter highlighted how her advocacy is deeply rooted in her Christian faith. “I’m here to help kids, and I am here to serve God,” she affirmed in the interview. Her dedication is evident in her public support for children facing adversity.

Despite criticism, Ms. Rachel’s advocacy work continues. Her stance has drawn ire for being “political,” yet she stands firm, much like the biblical prophets who spoke truth to power. Her efforts echo the actions of other educators who use their platforms to promote a vision of justice. “Hope is fuel that helps us keep working towards change,” she told NCR, emphasizing the importance of maintaining hope in the face of adversity.

Her work is reminiscent of the quiet yet powerful acts of figures like Fred Rogers. Rogers, known for his children’s program, once shared a wading pool with François Clemmons in a symbolic act against segregation. Similarly, Ms. Rachel’s interaction with Rahaf, a child from Gaza who lost her legs in an airstrike, was a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict.

Ms. Rachel’s actions challenge us to teach children words that reflect justice and compassion. She emphasizes the Bible’s call to love all neighbors equally. In a conversation with journalist Mehdi Hasan, she stated, “I think it should be controversial to not say anything,” defending her choice to speak out about global injustices.

In teaching simple words, Ms. Rachel invites both children and adults to envision a different world. Through her platform, she encourages us to affirm the rights of all children, regardless of nationality or circumstance. As she asks toddlers to repeat after her, she implicitly asks society to learn to say: