My sister Maya is 17 years old, and she has an incredible talent for photography. She's been capturing the beauty of the world through her lens since she was 10, and her passion has only grown stronger over the years. However, Maya is not allowed to have an Instagram account, even though I am allowed. This disparity isn't fair, especially when Maya's intentions are pure: she wants to showcase her artistic work and connect with a community that appreciates her unique perspective.

Her father has agreed to let her have an Instagram account, but only on the condition that she obtains 200 signatures on this petition by April 25th, a challenging deadline to meet. Maya needs a platform where she can share her photographs, gain constructive feedback, and interact with fellow photography enthusiasts. Instagram is a fantastic opportunity for her to expand her horizons and grow as an artist, providing her with the exposure and community she deserves.

Allowing Maya the freedom to manage her own Instagram account would empower her, giving her a chance to responsibly engage with social media. She has shown maturity in understanding the delicate balance required to maintain a healthy relationship with social platforms, and she's confident that her usage will be both responsible and purposeful.

We understand the concerns surrounding young people and social media, but this is not a frivolous pursuit. Maya's goal is to create, inspire, and be part of a larger conversation in the arts community. She does not seek social media for idle scrolling or meaningless chatter; instead, she wishes to make connections that will foster her growth and development into a professional photographer.

Please consider supporting Maya in her journey by signing this petition. By doing so, you'll not only be endorsing her passion but also reaffirming the idea that young artists should be encouraged and given opportunities to shine. Help Maya get the platform she needs to share her art with the world.