Living in the modern era carries with it many benefits; access to any and all information is readily available at your fingertips, forging and maintaining relationships is easier than ever, and most importantly, you can watch Netflix on your phone. All of this ease of access can be extremely positive as it allows everyone on Earth to be connected, but it's not all good. Modern life also brings with it a constant barrage of negative news, constant awareness of tragedy around the world, and a clearer view of just how horribly modern politicians act.
In recent weeks America watched as now Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh screamed and bullied his way onto the Supreme Court in spite of compelling evidence not only against his character but against his ability to pass nonbiased judgments– an ability he clearly does not possess.
Millions of young people and students had front row seats courtesy of the internet to watch powerlessly as the Republican party forced through an under-qualified, vitriolic, partisan, accused sexual assailant to a seat on the highest court in the land with little debate.
Due to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's rule change last year, Republicans needed only a simple majority, 51-49, in order to confirm a Supreme Court nominee. This rule change virtually destroyed any chances of a bipartisan confirmation as Senate Republicans did not need a single Democratic to pass a confirmation vote.
How does it feel as a young person to watch as these ancient politicians ignore the will of people, the source of their power, and operate in such a despicable and unacceptable way? Not Good. Republicans have taught young people everywhere that not only do their voices not matter but that they don't even deserve a seat at the table. The modern Republican message is clear; "adults are talking, sit down and be quiet kids." From the young person's viewpoint, the situation is close to hopeless. Old white men, some of whom are over eighty years old, who we've never voted for, who are ignorant to an alarming degree, are making decisions that will affect us for the rest of our lives. The overwhelming feeling of helplessness and exhaustion are ruinous to the mentality of young people and students.
So what do you do now, when all seems hopeless? Do Not Give Up. Do Not Give In. Now is the time for action. Make sure you are registered to vote, know your polling place, and make sure you actually go vote on November 6th. Join peaceful protests, sign petitions, organize your friends, send letters to Congress, do everything you can to make your voice heard, even if it's ignored. The only power people have in this democracy is their voice, use yours. And if that fails, don't lose hope. As Lin-Manuel Miranda's Alexander Hamilton says; "revolution is messy, but now is the time to stand."
