Democracy exists behind a glass for many teenagers of America; often fogged with misconception. It is a concept first established in history textbooks but reinforced daily on social media platforms and TV screens. It arrives by passionate debates at the dinner table and exits through stubbornly slammed doors. When tested on recognition of societally relevant terms, teens scored higher than the older demographic. Despite being a generation that whole heartedly deserves a voice, millions of teens stay unable to participate in the one act that defines democracy: voting.
When thinking from the perspective of a high schooler, the irony itself is sharper than the glass. High school students are expected to navigate a new society that circles elected officials, while being actively excluded from choosing such officials. Decisions about education, public transportation and college costs affect teenagers constantly; but still, the day of the Election feels like an event for observation from a TV rather than a process they have part in.
While many claim casting a ballot begins at legal age, civil engagement is undefined by being an 18-year-old. The actual habit that determines whether a citizen may participate in an election is built in the previous years: within classrooms, through conversations with friends or social media contacts and, most importantly, by public perception.
According to the Center of Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE), voter turnout for a presidential election among Americans aged 18-29 reached about 50% in the year 2020– one of the highest youth participation rates in recent history. For today, this stat is considered impressive; but there is another perspective to consider. What about the other millions of youth that stayed home and quiet?
For one, many young adults only face the question of voting once legally eligible, equivalent to having to take a midterm without any previous classes in the subject. Similarly, in civic engagement, students who follow and discuss current events, public problems and government functioning are more prepared to vote than those widely unfamiliar.
Unknowingly for some, teenagers are granted the opportunity to prepare before they turn eighteen. In California and many other states, eligible teens can pre-register for voting so that once reaching voting age, registration then is automatically activated. Only taking a few minutes, the process can transform voting from a chore to a real honor and commitment.
Still with this in mind, the fact stands that democracy is an extension far beyond registration forms or cycles of elections. A large number of students assume political involvement truly entails choosing one side in a nationwide election. Despite this opinion, realistically some of the most meaningful civic engagement happens, literally, closer to home.
It should be of notable concern that most young adults are more qualified in naming a trending influencer than a political figure with real power. These figures and local governments make decisions that directly shape everyday life: city councils gather to influence housing, public services and local budgets. These decisions have an arguably more immediate impact than national debates.
Throughout the history of America, adolescents influence public life despite holding political power formally. High schools, for example, are significantly more political than they appear. Students have the authority to organize community projects, advocate for causes of their passion and raise awareness about issues that affect their generation.
A ballot is secretly the next step for habits like these. It represents years of observation, discussion, learning and reflection condensed into a single bigger decision.
For those still waiting outside the ballot box, preparation has already started. Articles that are read, local issues explored, thoughtful conversations and more contribute to a stronger, localized democracy.
