New year, new friends, new opportunities to organize

The past two years have seen one of the largest surges in global activism in human history. From the “Cockroach” protests in India to the “No Kings” rallies here at home, political involvement is in high demand.

But one group has led the wave of activism since the inception of public organizing: students.

College students have historically been the lynchpin of successful political movements and are often on the cutting edge of actionable policy. As Bradley begins classes again this fall, we have the opportunity and, in many ways, the responsibility to make our voices heard.

Historically, American college students have played massive roles in political change. The Greensboro sit-ins were instrumental in the Civil Rights movement. Students led the push against the continuation of the Vietnam War, and campuses were some of the first places in America to recognize apartheid in South Africa.

There are many ways to stay involved too.

Organizing protests is the most visible way to make your presence known, but it’s far from the only one. You can create a club to discuss matters around the world with the goal of informing others. You can volunteer for a political campaign or committee to help push for a candidate that would help our area prosper. You can join an existing organization hoping to increase visibility to issues, from local stories to international ones.

Perhaps a student newspaper.

Whatever you do, tell your friends. Make them care about what you care about. Help them understand that the most powerful force in the world is a group of college students who are willing to stand up for what they believe in.

Unfortunately, there’s far from a shortage of things to be upset about. So talk about them with anyone who will listen.

One of the best things about this campus is how easy it is to find those with similar interests. Whether it’s the frequent activities fairs, the B Involved app or the flyers posted around campus, there’s always a way to get involved in a new club and find like-minded individuals to spend time with.

Remember: we are the future of this country and this planet. Sometimes, like now, the old people in charge need a reminder of that.

Don’t let people tell you that you’re naive, or that they know better than you, or that what you do doesn’t matter. Just look to the past. History has proven that there will never be a more effective group of people at creating change than the people who surround you right now.

Summer break is over. So is the reprieve the powers that be get to have while we’re all dispersed.

We’re back now. It’s time to make your voice heard.