Gen Z is a strong generation that has strived to create a more politically and philosophically just society. Social justice encompasses a wide range of issues, including combating economic inequality, health inequalities, racial injustice, discrimination, and violence. Gen Z has proven time and time again that their voices deserve to be heard.
In recent years, technology has allowed this generation to learn a great deal about social issues prevalent not only in their home country but around the world. Leveraging hashtags and trending topics, Gen Z is full of young activists who are leveraging their resources to promote change and equality on all fronts.
Gen Z is focused on mental health awareness, racial justice, gender equality, and climate change advocacy. A big factor in this generation’s passion is the personal impact each social issue has on each individual. The Internet provides quick access to information and fuels Gen Z’s curiosity.
When the opinion on the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade was first drafted, Gen Zers wasted no time in using social media to encourage others to show that this generation has power. persuaded. Gen-Z for Change is a nonprofit organization that works toward “tangible progressive change on the ground.”
Teen Vogue wrote about Sean Wiggs, a Gen Z “pro-change” programmer who bombarded job sites with anti-abortion tips to prevent union-busting. This occurred after the Supreme Court’s opinion. Wiggs worked quickly toward progressive change.
Thanks to the accessibility of the digital age, older generations may envy or even feel threatened by Gen Z, as they are quick to act and speak out on social justice issues. Access to breaking news and life-changing information has never been faster.
Social media has greatly contributed to Gen Z using free speech as a way to see change. However, the side to this is that Gen Z is also tired of seeing life-changing information. I’m tired of hearing about tragic events. In this way, members of Gen Z are using their voices online and seeing change come from it.
Zoe Duncan, a third-year Art History student with a Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies qualification, spoke about Gen Z’s access to the internet.
“This is the first time in our generation that the Internet has allowed us to be so connected, not just to people of our generation, but to people all over the world,” Duncan said.
Gen Z, especially with their massive access to social media, must remain conscious of making their voices heard and not spreading misleading information to create false narratives about social issues. Must be. Duncan explained that she is primarily active on Instagram and uses the Stories feature to share her thoughts on feminism and especially the upcoming election.
“I think social media can be a double-edged sword that can spread misinformation and fall into different pipelines,” Duncan said. “So I try to at least try to know what the source is that I’m reposting to, or rather than just post and go about my day. I try to be more than just a performer. I want to make sure.”
Gen Z will continue to speak out about social injustice and demand change. With this access to social media, Gen Z is the next wave of activists who are proving that their voices should be heard to speak out against social injustice.
Daphne Grater is a third-year journalism student at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of columnists do not necessarily reflect those of the Post. what are your thoughts? Please email Daphne at dg422421@ohio.edu.
