"I wish people would stop characterizing today's youth as somehow different from previous generations of youth.
Our youth have always been idealistic, and when rebuffed, became disengaged.
At 16 yrs old, I went through a period where I organized and promoted a Black youth movement for states' rights ... Why? Because I reasoned Black folks held a numerical advantage in major urban areas (thereby, giving us the edge on close to home matters, i.e., local and legislative seats, and consolidated influence in state-wide races) and because the old-heads placed weight in the, too slow to react, federal government. And when the "movement" failed, after one election cycle, I disengaged because "they wouldn't listen."
Our youth have always been struck by novel political concepts/ideology.
What youth hasn't returned from college as a Socialist, a communist, a libertarian, a pan-Africanist, even a republican, because "hey, it just makes sense! (and, I'm smart enough to understand what you don't!"
Our youth have always believed everything they think is brand new. (See the above: "it just makes sense! And, I'm smart enough to understand what you don't!"
The only difference I see (based on my lovely daugter) is the youth of previous generations were not subject to/ruled by instant gratification, and were never taught/led (allowed) to believe (again, based on my lovely daughter) that their neophyte opinion held sway, just because they thought of it ... both of which gives them the belief, they can jump the "get stuff done" line.
Fortunately, for those that will/would do anything beyond talking and dreaming, with age comes patience and wisdom ... and with patience and wisdom, comes engagement and progress.
Thanks."
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