“If we are to reach real peace in this world… we shall have to begin with children.”
— Mahatma Gandhi
Today, many young people below the age of 30 are getting involved in politics and making their voices heard. Marches on Washington, as well as rallies right here in Nebraska, have become popular topics among young activists.
Recently, the Women’s March has gained popularity for women’s rights; yet it is not only closed off to women. People supporting all different causes, including topics from the election to immigration, gather together on their own streets or the streets of their representatives to spread a positive message of love and acceptance. It all started on January 21, 2017, and has sparked many more of its kind to come.
Nebraska held some of its own marches on that very day, as well as a year later in 2018. There were marches in Lincoln and Omaha as well as other small towns run by volunteers.
The Women’s March also has youth ambassadors chosen to make kids’ voices be heard and encourage young activism. According to the Women’s March website, “WMW [The Women’s March on Washington] Youth Ambassadors are rockstar youth who are inspiring their communities through advocacy and activism. They are not waiting to grow up to ‘be the change’. They are the change and deserve a place at the table. They have distinct voices and are exemplary leaders in their communities.”
On the other side of the spectrum, the March for Life offers an opportunity for pro-life activists to speak their minds. This march has been going on since 1974 in reaction to the Roe vs. Wade decision made in 1973 that legalized abortion. In their first year, the protest gathered 20,000 people. In their largest year, there were a recorded 650,000 people protesting abortion.
This protest also inspired some Nebraskan and local marches. Showing that you don’t need to travel across the country to stand up for what you believe in.
There are so many young marchers that attend this protest. Rob McCartney for The Washington Post estimated that about half of the marchers are under age 30.
Both causes are getting young people to speak up for what they believe in. Youth getting involved in politics and topics of heavy debate will make the millennial generation and those to come more socially aware of what is happening in our country. Right here at Hastings High, we have had clubs and organizations in the past with the sole purpose of getting students involved, such as the Hastings High Young Democrats and Republicans. Taking a stand now is the first step to making a difference in our nation.
