As politics have become increasingly controversial in recent years, it seems that students have begun to catch on. Through classes like English, History and Journalism, current events are often discussed. Whether it is a recent shooting, a new law being passed, or protests occurring on our local streets.While it is important to engage with these topics, conversations about them often spill outside the classroom and don’t always take place in the most productive way. These discussions are both valuable and challenging. These things are being discussed, which while it is important to be discussed, often these discussions continue outside of the classroom and not always in the best way.
Recently I experienced a difficult situation that made me reflect on this. After the events of the Charlie Kirk shooting, along with the school shooting that happened that same week, discussions about both began brewing between my friends and I. While it was important for us to discuss, things became tense quickly because we all had different opinions on the matter. It got to the point where people were arguing and even insulting each other’s views. While I wish this situation hadn’t happened to me, it ended up being a learning experience for all of us
Through this experience, one of the things that myself and my friends realized was that while we have access to a plethora of information, we don’t necessarily fully understand what we are discussing. This is something that I believe applies to all teens when discussing politics and current events. Some of us are very informed, but without being able to vote, or pay taxes it is harder to grasp the full picture. From now on, when discussing current events and politics, I keep in mind that many of us are not fully informed, and that our opinions are often shaped by what we see on social media rather than deeper research.
As stated earlier, teens discussing politics can be problematic, but they are also extremely valuable and rewarding. Having news and information easily accessible is something that has not always been around. In the past kids and teens were not discussing current events simply because they were not exposed to it. Today, access to media allows young people to learn and form opinions of their own. While some may say that one should not be exposed to this information until they are an adult, early exposure can benefit communities in the long run. Learning to speak out and protest for what you believe in is a right that new generations are actively exercising. Through discussing politics and current events teens are able to become more aware of different view points, situations, and issues in our country and the world as a whole. Youth interaction and discussion is not only affecting themselves, but also the actions of our leaders. With the interactions of youth and politics through social media and protesting it is becoming more apparent that politicians are trying to cater towards them. By bringing out musical artists and promising certain acts that affect our future.
Teens talking about politics is something that is shaping our future in a way that has not happened before. It is important to remember when having a conversation with friends, teachers, or family members that everyone has different views and everyone is educated differently. This does not mean to keep your voice hidden at all, but to represent what you believe in an educated and calm way.
