Winter Editorial 

Posted Dec. 13, 2023

By The Highlander Staff

In a world of consistent change, we have seen many examples of students advocating for positive change within our community and for wider causes. The key sentiment beyond all this is their belief in the ability to invoke change, to advocate, and to fight for a cause. Young people in this country are aware of the impact their voice can have and what it could hold for future generations.

Our generation was at the forefront of many well-known social revolutions in the 20th and 21st centuries. Ultimately, activism has been linked to the efforts of the younger generation, whose viewpoints are frequently dismissed by older generations. Numerous protests, including the Arab Spring, the May 1968 French protests, and opposition to the Vietnam War, have been driven by the youth’s voices.

In June 2023, young people in Montana spearheaded legal action against their state for “enacting legislation that benefits the fossil fuel industry to the detriment of the state’s natural landmarks, wildlife, and residents.” Montana is home to the nation’s largest coal reserves. Even if the initiative to fight for a cause is ultimately deemed “unsuccessful,” fighting for it can still raise awareness and lead to larger movements for change. 

For many Gen Zers, activism has been a central part of their lives as this generation has found themselves up against challenges early on like climate change, inequality and social unrest, political turmoil, etc. Change is only possible when there is a will and belief to strive for it.