Today, the people of older generations say that we youngsters are not connected to the political world. We spend too much time on our phones, and our lives revolve around whatever is out on Netflix. We are told by those older than us that our ignorance and apathy will destroy democracy. However, this common belief is changing due to the world’s complex and unstable political climate.

First, we must challenge the question of ignorance. From my own experience, I can safely say most of us Gen Z-ers and Millennials are far from ignorant. In the current political state of our country, it is extremely difficult to remain unaware. Everyday, we are bombarded with news from a multitude of media platforms. As I scroll through social media, I see less and less of my friends’ pictures and more of people sharing their voice about a political issue. Smart politicians know the new way to connect with a younger audience is through social media, so I can assure all of you that we are not void of targeted political ads. Seeing these ads and other people’s posts about social issues make it only natural for those not involved to become involved. And through this process, it is evident that not all young people are ignorant to politics.

Second, we must address the problem of apathy towards politics. As stated above, in today’s day and age, it is hard to ignore the political buzz. I will admit that what we know about current politics can make us apathetic. But, it can also make us active. Some will be apathetic. Some young people think politics don’t affect them, or that politicians don’t care about them. And in some cases, this is true. But more often than not, hearing what’s happening around the country and the world makes us active.

While most of us teenagers are not able to vote, the amount of political participation I see among my peers is impressive. So many of us attend protests, events, form clubs, or volunteer in order to be active in the political world. And by the time we turn 18, or 17 in order to vote in primaries, we want to vote. If anything, this new and upcoming Generation Z is going to be one of the most politically active generations in decades. I know so many people who are pre-registered to vote, or seniors just 18 that voted in the midterm election.

All around the country, teenagers are creating change. Whether that’s on a national scale like Everytown, or on a local scale like a club on campus, it is evident that teenagers are far from apathetic towards politics.

Our political participation gives us a voice. So, if you think our apathy or ignorance causes our issues to not be addressed, I’d like you to open your ears and listen harder. Because I guarantee you, we are shouting.