"I have found belonging with my family and friends. The people in my classes can also be like part of my family, even though we aren’t directly related. For me, “I Belong!” means I know where I am accepted, and I know that I can be myself there without being criticized or judged.” - Ben Morgan

Creative Ways to Explore “I Belong!”  

There are even more opportunities for creative thinking across the Reflections arts categories! Here are just a few ideas to get begin working on your entry: 

• Expressive Movement in Dance Choreography: Find a song that captures how you feel about belonging and use dance or movement as a form of artistic expression. Moving your body in response to music or emotions can help release feelings and foster a sense of connection with yourself.
  
  

• Personal Documentaries in Film Production: Create a documentary about your own experiences with belonging and/or exclusion. This can help you process your feelings and share your story with others.
  
  

• Write a Story in Literature: Tell the story of your experiences using different characters, settings and plot points that help share how  belonging feels. This can help you process your journey and see it from a new perspective. 
  
  

• Collage Making in Visual Arts: Create collages using magazine cutouts, photographs, and other materials to create a cohesive image. Focus on how you personally define belonging, identity and community to help you visualize and explore your feelings in a tangible way.
  
  

• Instrumental Pieces in Music Composition: Create instrumental music that evokes the feelings associated with belonging. Rather than lyrics, use melodies, harmonies, and rhythms to express emotions like acceptance, and connection. Use style-specific instruments to represent your piece as part of a larger musical style and narrative. 
  
  

• Symbolic Imagery in Photography: Set, stage and capture an image with different pieces that jointly symbolize belonging, such as group activities, or shared spaces. Use these symbols to create a visual narrative about connection and togetherness.