Generation Z: Do They Even Care?

Groans are heard across the dinner table as someone brings up the topic of politics for the fourth time. By the rolling of eyes and distant stares on their faces, you’d assume we’ve heard enough and would frankly rather be having a nap.

Is this a generational conflict?

Some people disregard what’s happening in their global, national, and local news until the results are finished and all the polls have been closed. Some people just want easy information. People may not want to sit around waiting to see what is happening, and maybe some people simply don’t care.

This exact concept is seen in current politics with president Trump. A lot of young people are frustrated because they feel as if their voices were not heard.

“… Trump has gotten more teenagers to pay attention to politics… because of him wanting to build a wall, the immigration things, and the other controversial things he’s said and done,” says UHS Senior Kennedy Kindle-Reynolds.

Generation Z, also referred to as the Post-Millennials, have thoughts about the current political sphere. Brian King, senior, explains, “I feel like we do care about what’s going on politically because we want to make sure everyone lives peacefully,” King said.

King believes the younger generations will be greatly involved in politics in the future.

This chance prompts people, especially younger generations, to be more aware and involved in politics than ever before. Regardless of the intentions, democracy doesn’t always result in the choice people want. Democracy may be messy and divided, but every voice should be heard.

There is a stereotype of the younger generations. Unlike the Baby Boomers, Post-Millennials are often referred to as self absorbed, entitled, and not patient enough to reap the benefits of hard work.

Nikita Pack, senior and post-millennial, believes “…this generation does not care or thinks too highly of themselves. When it comes to politics rather than coming and working together they are pushing each other away.”

Whether people like it or not, the current generation is the future. Maybe some young people don’t show up to the conversation. Maybe they are in bed sleeping from last night’s turn up or they don’t think their voices matter. But the truth is a lot of young people are showing up. And as long as Generation Z is trying, this tech savvy, quick and open-minded group will be OK.

Young people especially are becoming more aware of the conversations they want to be a part of; leaving no one left at the kiddy table during dinner.