Opinion: Teens Need To Become More Civically Engaged
Media by Aarushi Bute
It’s been more than 200 years since the supposedly free United States of America has been founded, yet issues like inequality, poverty, and housing problems are still very prevalent.
And though politically and socially active kids from Generation Z are now what represents America, so far nothing has been accomplished to solve any of these problems.
The lame excuse? Most of them can’t vote.
And in terms of those who can, only about 20 percent of young adults showed up to the 2014 presidential election, according to the United States Census Bureau.
Standing in a line for hours only to circle a name that might not even hold any significant value doesn’t sound appealing, I know. The real truth, however, is that bubbling one name can change America’s path and change lives all across the nation.
The president guides the country to achieve prosperity. With not enough opinions, America will fall.
But for those who can’t vote, there is more than enough to do to prepare for this year’s upcoming election.
Learning about the candidates’ viewpoints and forming an opinion is of the utmost importance to help make the right choice when picking the next president to look over the nation.
Voting is a habit and when people start, they don’t usually stop.
Becoming civically engaged also gives young people all across the globe the ability to not only express their opinion but stand up for what is moral. Allowing the upcoming generations to do what is virtuous and have the courage to make a change.
Becoming civically engaged can give young people a chance to solve problems widespread today. But change can only happen with everyone’s help.
Tell parents to vote if they don’t already, tell friends to express their opinions, encourage others to stand up for what is moral. In the next few years, it will be our turn to lead another generation, and we need to be prepared.
Civic engagement isn’t supposed to be a responsibility but rather a right. Living in America gives everyone a fair chance to vote, and that must be honored.
Vote, learn about America’s history, stand up for beliefs, and tackle any obstacles standing in the way.
This isn’t going to be an easy ride, but I assure you it will be a good one.
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Aarushi Bute, senior, is the Editor-in-Chief of the Marquette Messenger. She is passionate about public health, politics, and writing, particularly to...