Generation Q – the Quiet Americans. That’s what today’s college students were labeled in a New York Times op-ed published last October. Thomas L. Friedman pointed out that considering how strongly today’s decisions impact our future, we are “less radical and politically engaged” than we ought to be.
He’s right. Campuses aren’t driving the nation’s decisions. But we’re trying. From clubs to conferences, we advocate issues that matter to us, but that is not enough to achieve the radical demonstration that Friedman suggests.
Obtaining such a potent voice would require unity – an unlikely aspiration. Perhaps increased diversity within our institutions is responsible, but we, as students are seldom passionate enough about the same issue to take unified action, and when we are, we often take differing stances.
Our inability to mobilize for a common cause, however, shouldn’t weaken our voices. Our input is too essential.
“America needs a jolt of the idealism, activism and outrage… of Generation Q,” declared Friedman. “That’s what twenty-somethings are for – to light a fire under the country.”
However, we have been taught not to play with matches, and with such division among us, I doubt that an awe-inspiring fire will soon ignite. Luckily, drastic action isn’t necessary.
Instead of publishing columns that call us quiet, the national media could simply give us a civilized voice. Provide college students with a daily opinion page in national newspapers and empower us with the ability to influence.
We may lack the expertise to compete with current contributors, but our education and viewpoints are valuable nonetheless. We read the most current texts, and with an emphasis on a well-rounded education, we are taught to view affairs through the lens of multiple fields, a perspective that specialists may have lost through the years.
In addition, increased diversity in universities allows us to develop understanding and respect for individuals from various backgrounds and belief. These are sentiments that America needs to take more into account, especially in international relations.
Furthermore, while older generations focus on today’s survival, it is our responsibility to ensure the wellbeing of the nation’s future. With our education and invested concern for tomorrow, we will be able to make fresh and often enlightening contributions.
I predict that publishing students’ opinions in national papers will pressure our generation to rethink their roles in national affairs. Many will be motivated to get off the bench and engage in the active citizenship to which they’re entitled and obliged. Such involvement is bound to produce stronger leaders and a better future for the United States.
With declining newspaper readership, engaging youth may even be a profitable endeavor. When newspapers are publishing stories on weddings, fashion and television, I have no doubt that they can accommodate our views.
If nothing else, give us a Section Q.
Communication junior Nausheen Shaikh can be reached at [email protected].
