9 Things to Watch, Listen to, or Do to Become More Politically Active
Start writing a post
Community

9 Things to Watch, Listen to, or Do to Become More Politically Active

It can be overwhelming at first, but everyone has to start somewhere.

91
9 Things to Watch, Listen to, or Do to Become More Politically Active

After years of many staying in the dark when it comes to politics, people are finally starting to understand the importance of the field. Through the power of social media, global issues that have been going on for years are finally getting the exposure they deserve. From the humanitarian crisis in Yemen to the concentration camps holding Muslims in China, more and more of us are paying attention to how politicians and organizations are acting.

I am constantly trying to learn more about international relations and issues, and I am well aware that I am far from being an expert. However, as a student who has devoted my undergraduate career to studying politics, I spend as much of my free time as possible further educating myself on what is happening in the world. Obviously, it is virtually impossible to know about everything that is going on. If you are just beginning your journey of becoming more politically aware, it can be very overwhelming to differentiate between which forms of media will be the most helpful and accessible to you.

Although some may argue that politics is simply "too confusing" to even bother with, it does not have to be. There are many resources out there for people who want to know more, but don't know exactly where to start.

1. Read 'How to Be an Antiracist' by Ibram X. Kendi

cdn.vaildaily.com

Every system, especially the political system, in the United States in deeply rooted in white supremacy. You cannot talk about politics without understanding the ways in which it profits from racism.

2. Choose Relatively Nonpartisan News Sources

s3.amazonaws.com

Despite what your older family members may argue, there is such thing as unbiased news. Consuming news regularly will help you on your political journey, so try looking into outlets such as NPR or the Associated Press that have been confirmed by the Gallup and Knight Foundation's Survey on Trust, Media and Democracy to be as neutral as possible.

3. Follow Politicians on Social Media

www.impactbnd.com

Unfortunately, not all of us have the time to read hours of news a day. Incorporating politics into your daily routine in small steps might be the most effective approach for you, so begin by following some politicians or news outlets on social media. I recommend starting off with politicians in your state so you can be informed about news that directly impacts you.

4. Watch Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj

m.media-amazon.com

In this Netflix series, Hasan Minhaj provides information in a way that is accessible and effective. Whether he is discussing the corruption in Brazil or legalizing marijuana, he knows how to engage his audience. Plus, who doesn't love a little political comedy?

5. Listen to Political Gabfest

www.musingaboutmud.com

This podcast has been run by the triumphant trio of John Dickerson, Emily Bazelon, and David Plotz since 2005. Every week, the group comes together to discuss the most important events that happened in the past few days. Their unfiltered opinions are not only hilarious, but extremely relatable to everyone who is frustrated about the current state of the world.

6. Take Introduction to Politics Classes

widget.campusexplorer.com

If you are a college student and have room in your schedule in the upcoming semester, consider taking an introduction class in national, international, or comparative politics. For those who are not currently in school, there are many options to take free Political Science courses online.

7. Read 'The Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court' by Jeffrey Toobin

images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com

In order to be politically engaged in the United States, you should probably know about all three branches of the government: legislative, executive, and judicial. Understanding how the leaders of the judicial system operate is imperative to figuring out the mess that is American politics.

8. Subscribe to theSkimm

images.ctfassets.net

If you typically check your email often, subscribing to theSkimm will help you dip your toe into the political world. Every morning, you'll receive a newsletter that includes important information about global issues.

9. Engage in Political Conversations

image.freepik.com

There is undeniably a stigma against discussing politics in casual conversation. Being politically active means talking to friends, colleagues, and (unfortunately) family about politics. These conversations can perhaps give light to different perspectives and show you which areas you need to learn more about.

It is okay to feel like you are behind the curve when it comes to political education, but it is not okay to remain ignorant. Start with small steps, and you'll be a pro in no time.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

45801
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

28988
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

953431
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

160272
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments