The younger generation is so open about their views and their passion. They use social media and new forms of technology to push for their values. The passion they have on modern issues is extraordinary.

The fight against climate change is fueled by the younger generations. They have a straightforward view of their future or a fundamental idea on issues affecting them. This generation continues to fight for their values which are vital to the development of the world.

Youth Activism Makes an global impact

The burdens that often hold older generations back, Generation Z has already made strides in the political field fighting for their beliefs. This movement calls to attention social issues and promotes change within a wide range of platforms. As young adults begin to enter the work force, we will see even more potential for growth and action from an increasingly powerful demographic. Such activism will not only help change political views, but also begin to shift important cultural perspectives as well. My generation is one of risk-takers, says Michelle Vives, founder of Proteus Youth Action Group (PYAG). We are ready to face our fears head on. She explains how her organization creates a platform for young people to speak out about what they feel needs changing. PYAG uses direct actions such as sit-ins or demonstrations against big corporations that have failed to take responsibility for their actions towards society.

Youth Action has been making an impact since 2015, when 14-year-old Greta Thunberg launched a school strike after becoming aware of climate change. After realizing that no politician was going to make changes without youth pressure, she began protesting outside Sweden’s parliament every Friday with other students who were concerned about global warming. Today she leads Youth For Climate along with other youth activists across Europe who encourage others to be aware of environmental changes happening around them. In fact, 350 Swedish Youth For Climate members organized a Walk For Future march across 10 cities throughout Sweden earlier in October 2018, which attracted over 4500 participants including students and politicians alike.

 

What Does Youth Activism Really Mean?

People will tell you that you’re too young to make a difference, but age doesn’t determine passion or idealism. Don’t discount your voice because you don’t have gray hair and wrinkles; youth is valuable and unique because it means you’re able to see change with more fresh eyes. Youth activists are often some of our most effective citizens because they can turn idealism into hard work. You might not be old enough to vote yet, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t capable of taking part in political action. As long as you live in America, there’s something for you to do politically–you just need to find what’s right for you.

Youth should continue to fight for their beliefs even when they think no one else agrees with them. If you believe in something, then keep fighting until someone listens—and if no one does listen, keep fighting until someone sees how important your cause is. Youth activism is important because youth tend to care more about certain issues than older generations do. It’s also important because youth are known for being fearless and passionate fighters who won’t give up when faced with opposition. Youth activism takes many forms: it could be rallying at state capitols or protesting outside of government buildings; it could be giving speeches at school board meetings or organizing charity events; it could even be standing up against social injustice by making art that speaks out against hate crimes or human trafficking.

Why Not Start Right Now?

You might not be old enough to vote or drive a car, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start fighting for your beliefs now. Youth Action believes everyone has something to contribute and everyone has a voice that matters. Many social issues stem from underrepresentation by those who need change most; if you’re still in high school, your age makes you more likely to listen to what young people are saying about these issues. Youth Action is dedicated to helping youth take action on their beliefs through community outreach, education, advocacy and volunteerism. Adolescent ideas and opinions are always being voiced by people three times older than them. Politicians continue to ignore the issues plaguing their region and young adults want a say in this situation.

Naira Tamminga is the spitting image of a fed up teenager. She like many others are tired of politicians doing nothing to stop police violence. She went to a council meeting and shared her opinion on police violence. Naira as a 14 year old girl has continued to share her opinions on police reform so government officials would do something. She has been advocating for Patrick Lyoya after he was brutally murdered.

Teenagers like her should continue to speak up on the issues they are passionate about. By making discussions inclusive, those from affected groups may be represented still. We worry even as much about the inequality of our systems and our uneven societal playing field. We must incorporate the views of teens within debate and discussions already happening, instead of ignoring them. The voice of the younger generation is essential to our nation. It doesn’t matter what age you are fighting for a cause you believe in makes you a vital for our country.

‍