Youth and student organizing are extremely important. Many youth are at a point in their lives alienated from “the system,” frustrated at its seemingly monolithic and static nature. Generation X was often labeled angst ridden and apathetic. My generation, as well, is often is labeled with similar adjectives. New York Times columnist Thomas Freedman proclaims my generation to be “Generation Q” for quiet. He is frustrated with the millennial’s failure to take action, and believes a continuing apathy to be the predominate paradigm of my generation.
It is easy to feel powerless. We are taught a shallow assumption about how change is made –that change is made my noble individuals, acting alone. We are never taught about the power of people organizing together, or about the true history of our people and our nation –a history filled with grassroots social movements making real and fundamental change.
Like Generation X, my generation feels increasing alienated from society. My generation, though, is positioned in time and space for massive social upheaval and change. It is becoming increasingly apparent that my generation’s expectations will not be met. Expectations of a better lifestyle than our parents; expectations that the Presidential candidate will solve all our problems. This opportunity presents itself at the convergence of an occupation in Iraq, the climate crisis, an unstable economy, and failing schools with skyrocketing tuition.
This reality can either reinforce the story of the powerless people, or give birth to a new story of people reclaiming power over their lives, and futures. It is the role of organizer to facilitate the participation of millions of people seeking to alter the trajectory of change. These change agents should spread the virus of hope and of a vision for a better future, infecting millions. If my generation is up to the challenge, I truly believe massive and positive changes will come.
