Are teenagers of today truly engaging with the world around them? Taking action for what they believe in and truly taking steps to enact laws and measures for a better environment?
Activism comes in many forms and it does not have to be marching in rallies or engaging in specific political endeavors that may result in ...tricky situations. Instead, activism comes in small doses. A little kind act here and there is valued, sure, but are teenagers really igniting a fire inside themselves for something more important? Where do their passions lie?
A survey conducted in an unnamed university shows that many students do not have a passion for advocating for their rights.
So what can we do to remedy and create an approach for the youth and future of the country to develop the same passion our founding fathers had?
The approach starts early.
Kids' early ages show signs of strength and having opinions. Most kids growing up are oppressed from their ideas and stripped away of their creativity because of social pressures and school enactments that restrict art to thrive. Most kids do not have fully formed opinions on the popular issues of the country even in high school, not even opinions on what their future should be like.
Are we really creating a mindless, thoughtless generation of robots who is afraid to speak out and make opinions, rather than even voice them?
To foster their creativity, we need to take action. We need to inspire others and put down Instagram and Snapchat to open our eyes to the world and truly take in the opportunities that it offers. And realize the fact that anyone can make a difference.
In 1908, Mary Jones created the first youth activism in the U.S. Over 100,000 child miners marched from Pennsylvania to Washington D.C. to advocate for their needs. If they can walk that far, under those conditions, in that time period, why can't we engage in measures that will foster our concerns?
So how will you make a difference today?
Below, I have listed 5 ways that a teenager or young adult can take action and advocate for their rights:
1. Sign Petitions.
This website allows you to sign petitions that may spark your interest and you can make a change by simply sitting at your computer!
2. Contact your local/state/federal legislators, governors and senators.
https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials
This is a link to where you can find contact information for any elected official. Send them a letter expressing your concern on a matter and make a change.
3. Educate.
Make YouTube videos, write blog posts, start a campaign. Truly get your word out there and spark the activism and want for change inside people's hearts.
4. Volunteer Locally.
Activism might be easy as participating in service organizations and suggesting projects or campaigns that come to your mind for a subject matter that you want to see accomplished.
5. Social Media.
Spread your word and your thoughts online, without overbearing your arguments with controversy. Be gentle, but be bold. Use your voice and create a beautiful world.
