Political activism

Earlier this year I had the privilege to sit in on a

lunch discussion with James Carroll, a Boston Globe

columnist who was visiting my university to give a

speech on his latest book. The dialogue eventually

[5]  came around to discussing the differences between

youth protests today and those during the 1960s. He

suggested that youth in the latter period had more of

an influence than today simply because they were

able to involve politicians in their rallies, petitions

[10]  and causes. Conversely, when today’s youth hold a

demonstration in front of a parliament building or

contest a particular aspect of an institution, their forms

of protest lack influence to cause change because

they do not have any political figures or individuals

[15]  involved in their particular protest.

At this point, the issue of how we as youth can

attract politicians to become part of our campaigns

and protests in order to successfully effect political

change should be explored. First, we as Canadian

[20]  youth must become involved in organizations and

groups that address current social and political issues

that affect us. Involvement increases youth awareness

and influence. Groups or organizations that deal

with issues such as the environment, poverty, gender

[25]  equality and others that may be of interest to you

are worth joining. Organizational involvement gives

youth a platform from which to express their opinions

about issues of importance.

Involvement does not have to be centred on issues

[30]  on a grand scale; more local events may persuade

you to get involved. Joining an organization that is

dedicated to, for example, preventing the closing of

a local public school or big box stores from entering

the neighbourhood, are also avenues where engaged

[35]  youth can make a difference. By simply involving

ourselves with these issues and organizations, we

allow ourselves the opportunity to meet people of

influence, whether they be politicians or others who

have a direct influence on social and political events

[40]  in our communities, cities, provinces or country.

Involvement in community issues and political

campaigns are great opportunities to gain access

to individuals such as politicians and community

leaders. These connections can then be used in our

[45]  favour when attempting to advance our own cause

or demonstrations. Any argument will have a greater

influence when it is supported by members of the

political community.

If you are dedicated to making a difference in your

[50]  community, or are dedicated to a cause and are

frustrated that your voice is not being heard, try to

acquire political leaders’ attention and aid in pursuing

causes that affect and concern youth. Our young

political ancestors of the 1960s did this effectively; it

[55]  is time that the youth of the current generation learn

from their example and attempt to gain established

political support for our causes.