SCOTT GOODSTEIN ON
Tips for Getting Younger Generations Involved in Activism
Introduction Young people are powerful agents of change. In the 2020 election, 50% of young people aged 18-29 voted, an 11-point increase from the 39% in 2016. That just shows that when properly spoken to and motivated, young people are willing to engage in huge numbers. Here are some tips for getting younger generations involved in activism:
Start with education- both yourself and others The myth we have often been told is younger generations are lazy and uninspired is not true. Many young voters have different priorities, such as ending racial injustice or saving the environment. You should start with questioning your assumptions about the youth and then look to educate others and encourage the next generation to take action..
Start advocating Younger generations have historically been a driving force in legislative change. Spread the word about how it was the younger generations who drove change in the Civil Rights Movement and the DREAMers movement. This will inspire them to do something similar with their own causes.
Get creative There are always new ways to educate people about important issues and think outside the box. The younger generations often possess a wealth of creativity, so encourage them to use that creativity in their activism.
Embrace Social Media Storytelling can be a powerful tool in activism, and the younger generations are experts in telling stories through the latest social media platforms. After all, video with sound appeal to emotions in ways words and numbers simply can’t. Log in to social media and start engaging with these younger audiences telling their stories in creative ways.
Scott Goodstein Scott Goodstein is the founder of Catalyst Campaigns. He firmly believes that art and culture are the best way at explaining the human condition.