Teens and Activism

by: Carissa Cunningham

“Be the change you wish to see in the World.” Ghandi

Being a teenager is hard. It just is. Our lives are filled with stuff that we barely know how to deal with, and every moral and standard we have ever been taught is questioned. We think we just simply don’t have time for anyone but ourselves. However, the shame of it is, that with us lies any hope of change.

My peers have always looked at me a little funny whenever I declare that I’m an activist. Some of them even laugh a little at my strong opinions on equal rights for all. Most teens seem to be cynical of our entire system of government and society. We just don’t think it’s repairable, or that somebody else will fix it for us.

The truth however, is that the youth has all the power. We have the energy and stamina to fight the system. With new technology providing us quick access to networking, we find ourselves more capable than ever. The only thing that we need is one person to stand up and say that something is not right. Teenagers are good people too, but with the pressures of social status and schoolwork often distracting us, we don’t always seem to make the best activists. However, when someone does work up the courage to lead teens, and make them aware that they can make a difference, that is when the change happens.

The most important way to make teenagers more active is to make them aware. Most teens are stuck in their own little world and either don’t know or care enough to find out what the world’s issues are. It’s important to share knowledge on the world’s affairs with others. Once teenagers know about it, they can do something about it.

Another thing is to make sure teenagers know the power that they have. Teenagers may seem rebellious and independent, but honestly most of us play by society’s rules anyway.  Most of us don’t fully understand the power of social networking and banding together for a cause.

Last it’s important to always be honest. Teens need to see the truth the same as adults. Protection will not make us better leaders of tomorrow. Teens have to be treated with the same standards as any adult activist.

Contrary to popular belief, teens aren’t apathetic. We just need a little nudge in the right direction, and strong leaders among us to channel our efforts.

Posted: April 15, 2011