Answer:
The real solutions to global issues, however, must be concrete, not virtual. Any problem can be solved if people co-operate. Cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead put it this way: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” The main obstacle to progress, however, is the general apathy of Generation Z (those born since 1999) and trusting that someone else will take care of it. In order to solve problems such as education, climate change, and social equality, one must join the call to arms and take action, rather than join the talk about it. Effective activism can motivate people to take part in change and create sustainable movements.
Lack of Education
Education is a topic that many feel strongly about, especially since most people in Generation Z are currently in school or post-secondary. Lack of quality education is one of the world’s most persistent issues. This problem is not isolated to developing countries where equitable education systems may not yet be in place; North American education systems also have flaws. Activism in developing new schools, or fortifying existing ones, is effective because people have personal ties to the issue, perhaps suffering themselves in various ways from poor schooling. It is in the best interests of Generation Z, therefore, to resist the persistent flaws in education by joining a protest or doing something proactive about education issues. Harnessing our passion and turning it into activism can help mobilize people to change education systems at home and abroad.
Deterioration of the Environment
One of the biggest threats to our generation (and future generations) is the deterioration of the environment. Since this issue affects everyone, there must be more urgency in our communities to help the environment. This is an enormous problem for one person to change, so working in community is essential. Our generation must help educate and involve our communities in environmental issues like pollution and climate change. We can create online information sources, put up posters, and host events to promote environmental awareness and action. The community could start a garden or plants trees for everyone to enjoy. If every household just changed some little things — for example, car sharing, unplugging devices, and changing to energy efficient lightbulbs — it would add up to a big difference for our environment.
Lack of Equality
Lack of equality between races and genders is something that is learned, not natural. Or as Nelson Mandela once said, “No one is born hating another person.” The lack of equality globally requires real-world action rather than online thoughts and prayers. Worldwide, women are still fighting for equal representation, credibility, and even the right to their own bodies. We don’t mean in the developing world; all those statements ring true for the USA, which is supposedly the most powerful country in the world. Women still fight tough battles every day, and where do we hear about it? On social media of course. We see so much on Twitter or Instagram about how people of colour or the LGBTQ+ community are treated unfairly, and yet we fail to act outside of our comments and hashtags. But Instagram is neither a credible source nor a useful response. A repost is not good enough. Real issues like these need real awareness.
Moving Forward
Discussions at school, writing open letters to organizations that can make a difference, and speaking your mind when witnessing inequality first hand are all solutions to our lack of action. Generation Z talks a good game about being socially aware and progressive, but that attitude needs to carry over into real life. Bringing your views to your workplace is a good a start, since it can be a breeding ground for inequality. Calling attention to double standards and working to achieve a safe and equal work environment are all ways to enact change. Social change happens one person at a time, so we need to be those people.
