“You young people are upset with your government, but that is your strength. I was once in your shoes, and my discontentment laid the foundation of the republic we have today,” the man portraying Thomas Jefferson asserted. His words sent a jolt to my chest, as I realized the immense responsibility I possess as a teenager. My voice is impactful.
I won the state VFW Voice of Democracy contest by presenting a speech about my role in patriotism, and I was in Philadelphia sitting amongst 52 other teenagers. The man in the wig continued, “America’s government was intended to empower young people.” With that statement, I sat taller in my chair.
When I returned home and people asked about my trip, my response was “life changing.” That experience inspired me and implanted belief in me.
I’ve realized belief is integral to creating change. Without faith in yourself and what you can do, you may never take the first step. As teenagers, we must combat this perception that we are powerless. We must speak up about our frustrations, then do something about it. Without action, we are just complaining. Send a letter to someone who has more influence than you, create a group, organize a protest or a fundraiser. Just take the first physical step. Your little actions create a big impact.
That said, you cannot be civically engaged if you are not educated. Our minds are our biggest treasure, and once we neglect learning, we reject the gift that is critical thought.
Understanding government and current events empowers you. You not only owe learning to yourself, but also to the people who fight for our country. You owe it to the people who are part of our “one republic, indivisible” and to the great thinkers before you. You owe it to your future as you make important decisions when voting. Yes, it will be your responsibility to vote.
Travis Manion once said, “If not me, then who?” Even though I am young, I can make a difference, and that is my responsibility. Realizing you have such a duty changes you. It forces you to hold yourself to a higher standard. It makes you sit a little taller in your chair.
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Joanie McCormack, 16, a sophomore at Legacy High School, is the daughter of Jesse and Cheryl McCormack, who are members of Capital Electric Cooperative.
