Gen Z Deserves Better
Entertainment
Introduction
Over the next 20 years, today's young adults, particularly Gen Z, are coming of age to face immense challenges as they seek to own property in a world where the cost of living continues to soar. The impacts of COVID-19 and other diseases like measles are still felt, threatening people's health daily. Simultaneously, violent conflicts in regions like the Middle East, epitomized by brutal war campaigns, threaten millions of lives. In this chaotic backdrop, the social media landscape is filled with disturbing imagery, while institutions like public libraries and crucial infrastructure, such as bridges, are at risk of collapse. Disaster relief resources are increasingly unfunded, and climate disasters continue to rise globally, displacing and endangering countless lives.
Amidst this societal, geological, and economic collapse, young voters are presented with a choice between two political candidates who seem to lack real plans for substantial change. The candidates differ only in their approaches to worsening the dire situations facing society. The frustrations expressed by youth are often dismissed by older generations, who insist that younger individuals are to blame for the perceived incompetencies of those in power.
It is essential to recognize that Gen Z deserves better than the status quo represented by current political authorities and economic powers. The choices offered by political leaders often feel inadequate, akin to patching a sinking ship rather than addressing the structural problems at hand. Many young people find themselves embroiled in discussions on social media, trying to navigate the troubling ideologies around them but often feeling unheard and misunderstood.
The urgency of survival among this generation is only growing. Young individuals should focus on uniting with others who recognize the crises and are taking steps toward mutual support. Several actions can be encouraged for those seeking community and resilience amidst uncertainty: learning how to cook and grow produce, driving cautiously, mastering first aid, and supporting sustainable agriculture practices.
Additionally, contributing to the community shouldn't merely be seen as volunteering for free - instead, aspiring individuals should identify their skills and explore how they can benefit others. Mutual aid can serve as a robust model for community support, emphasizing cooperation over charity, where shared resources are used to fulfill communal needs.
Mutual aid, as outlined by activist Dean Spade, is notably distinct from traditional charity and is aimed at fostering solidarity, expanding mobilization, and addressing systemic failures effectively. With examples such as community food distribution efforts, individuals can explore ways to improve not just their but also their neighbors' quality of life through collaboration.
While protests are often criticized for their effectiveness, they nonetheless provide valuable opportunities for connection among like-minded individuals who share frustrations about current socio-political situations. These events can be pivotal for fostering relationships that lead to collective action and can imbue a sense of community that some may find lacking in their daily lives.
As younger generations grapple with the implications of their votes and the policies that affect them, they are often met with condescending rhetoric regarding their activism. Critiques of political candidates often get sidelined by mainstream discourse, as many emphasize the idea of voting for the 'lesser evil' rather than voicing necessary criticisms.
Critical thinking and political education are vital, especially with the rise of influential content creators and analysts. The imperative is not simply to agree with popular media personalities but to understand and interrogate underlying issues. Influencers are encouraged to express their views on pressing social matters while also promoting a culture of shared responsibility and preventative actions.
Ultimately, Gen Z will have the spotlight for the next few decades, contending with crises that older generations have not adequately addressed. This generation deserves better, particularly as they prepare for a future rife with uncertainty. The question remains: what will each individual do to contribute positively to their community? It's time to step back, think critically, and take actionable steps toward creating a more just and equitable world.
Keyword
- Gen Z
- Mutual Aid
- Community support
- Political education
- Critical thinking
- Protests
- Social justice
- Economic challenges
- Health crises
- Environmental disasters
FAQ
1. What challenges does Gen Z face today?
Gen Z faces rising living costs, health crises like COVID-19, global conflicts, environmental disasters, and inadequate political representation.
2. What is mutual aid?
Mutual aid refers to organized efforts to help each other meet needs, emphasizing solidarity and cooperation within communities rather than relying solely on charity or government intervention.
3. How can Gen Z contribute to their communities?
Individuals can contribute by learning practical skills, volunteering, engaging in mutual aid projects, and participating in protests to advocate for change.
4. Why is critical thinking important for Gen Z?
Critical thinking allows Gen Z to analyze social and political issues deeply, fostering informed decisions and sustaining activism aimed at creating a just society.
5. How can one find mutual aid networks?
Local community boards, social media platforms, and word-of-mouth can be useful resources for finding mutual aid networks specific to one’s area.