Generation Z, iGen, the Internet Generation—whatever else you may call us, we are a distinct generation full of young activists who are, and will continue to be, directly impacted by climate change. Despite our shared passion for the planet and radical politics, there’s one problem that plagues the younger generation: low voter turnout. Generation Z—and Millennials—have historically low attendance rates at the polls. In fact, in 2016, only 46.1% of adults ages 18-29 voted while 70.9% of adults 65 years and older voted in the U.S. These statistics stagnated in the following years. Why are younger generations so badly underrepresented in the polls? Why, when Gen Z is so active on the ground and on social media, is voting, which could literally shape our future, not common among our generation? Casting your ballot is more than just bubbling a couple circles and checking a couple of boxes on a piece of paper. Voting is a way to tell the government that we care about the issues that affect us—If climate change and racial injustice are at the forefront of this. Voting is one important step to solving the climate crisis, racial injustice, and wealth inequality that we will face in our future. Voting makes sure that those in high governmental positions are working toward a better future that benefits us, the people. So now that we know the power and potential that the youth has to make change through voting, what are ways they can get involved and educate themselves? Here are a couple of recommendations:
Events
Social Media
- Use the power of Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and other platforms to your advantage! Post/repost threads that provide valuable information on issues you care about.
Talk to your friends!
- Peer pressure can be used in a good way! Urge your friends to vote and check in with them to make sure they have voted. Emphasize how much it matters to you and them, and encourage them to spread this information to friends/family.
Here are some resources that you can use to inspire as well as educate the younger generation on the voting and the youth climate movement: SD350 Voting Guide
- A helpful guide that provides detailed information on how to make sure your vote counts (registration, voting, drop off) as well as info on the propositions/measures that SanDiego350 endorses.
Articles/Resources on the Youth Climate Movement
Another issue that has become apparent is the lack of knowledge about the voting process and pre-registration among youth who cannot yet vote. It is unfortunately safe to say that in the public school system there is little taught to students about the voting process, so it is in our hands to do the job. The number one most important thing to keep in mind is the power of knowledge and education. It isn’t until we educate our peers that they better understand the importance and need of their vote, so as the reader it is your job to text and call your fellow friends. We are Generation Z, the kids who have practically taped their phones to their hands; it takes 2 minutes to text 5 friends and it goes a long way. If you are too young to vote you have a few options; you can join zoom conferences with pre-registration parties, you can start at your very own dinner table, making sure your parents vote, as well as your older siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles. Use art and activism to amplify your voice, talk to your neighbors, and post on social media! Aaron Masikip is a Freshman at UCLA and Adelka Hancova is a senior at Point Loma High School and a SanDiego350 Youth Fellow. | 
