Ricordia: SpeakUp! Changing Future Generations

by Delaney Gillespie '27

Nowadays, teens struggle with navigating life, whether it be the realities of drugs/alcohol, bullying, social media, and many more. These obstacles prevent teens from sharing their opinions and making their voices heard. Luckily for our generation, SpeakUp! is an organization that allows teens to discuss difficult and important topics without the feeling of judgment. Founded by Martie Gillin, who is a Merion Mercy Academy alumna, the goal was to create a safe space for teens so they can share their personal experiences with others. 

In 2000, Martie Gillin was a grieving mother who had lost her son to AIDS. Gillin’s son's dying wish was for people to have a better understanding of what others are going through in the world. Whether that be illness, struggling with mental health, family issues, or so much more, his wish was to bring people together and turn uncomfortable conversations conversational. The first SpeakUp! meeting was held at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia. Students finally had the opportunity to talk about topics that were often overlooked.

Each year since 2000, Martie Gillin’s SpeakUp! has held several events throughout the region. Since the first event, Gillin has strived to enhance and improve SpeakUp! each year, reaching more and more schools. This year, one of those schools is St. Joe’s Prep, which is hosting with Merion Mercy Academy. Similar to previous years, the goal of the 2025 SpeakUp! event is to spread awareness of issues affecting teens personally, whether that be politics, mental health stigma, relationships as a young adult, and so much more. As a SpeakUp! leader, I can confidently say that those who participate will certainly leave with a broader mind and a better understanding of what young adults face today. 

The St. Joe’s/Merion Mercy Academy SpeakUp! event will be held on December 11, 2025. To learn more and register, visit speakup.org.