Educação pode mudar sua vida

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 is time that the youth of the current generation learn from their example and attempt to gain established political support for our causes.