As a generation that experienced the horror of 9/11 at an early age, the historical election of the first biracial president, and the legalization of gay marriage in several states, monumental events can only be on the rise for Gen Z as we begin to take control of the political world.

The oldest members of the generation are starting to reach the legal voting age and in a few years it will be time for Gen Z to be elected into political positions and govern the nation. So the biggest question is: Why does it seem like the majority of our generation is disinterested in being involved in the future of our country?

Each day, students sit in history classes thinking that it’s pointless to learn about events that have already occurred, and others wonder how the information they are learning will help them find a job after college. Instead of paying attention to current events in the world around us, many Gen Zers are choosing to conform to their parents’ ideals without researching and forming their own. Other members of Gen Z complain about our government and political problems, but they don’t take action to make a difference.

What do we blame these problems on? Lack of education? Or simply disinterest? Whatever the cause may be, Gen Z needs to take the initiative to become more involved.

This generation is already known for wanting to make the world a better place, and we are more accepting of different ideas than previous generations. Generation Z is the perfect candidate to step up and make a difference in the political arena of our country.

Instead of being persuaded by superficial advertisements from candidates, Gen Zers must learn the facts about how these candidates could impact our country.

We need to take into account how events in history have shaped the political world and learn from them, instead of letting the negative aspects of history repeat themselves.

Gen Zers must understand that soon they will be the ones voting, making critical decisions for our country and sending Americans off to war. In order to do this, we must know what it takes to lead this country and genuinely care about the outcome.

Soon there will be no one else for us to lean on or look up to.

Gen Z: We are the future of this country and it is time we start acting like it. Once the older generations secede from the political world, who will be left? Us. It is crucial that we are ready.

Send comments to endresonke1218@daretolearn.org