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.
Faust http://www.apathyisboring.com/
Involvement in community issues and political campaigns are great opportunities to gain access to individuals such as politicians and community leaders. (l. 41-44)
The fragment above highlights the importance of:
