Many people believe that if someone is not yet old enough to vote, they should refrain from talking about or being involved in politics (usually in an effort to undermine the credibility of someone under the age of 18 who disagrees with them). This view is not only in direct conflict with the founding principles of democracies, but it also encourages young people to become apolitical and apathetic and eventually fosters a large group of voting-age adults who neglect to vote. Despite what many people say, it is never too early too get involved. Here are five ways to be politically active before you cast your first ballot:
1. Read up on American civics and theories
The very first step to becoming a contributing member to our civics system is becoming politically competent. As we have seen time and time again, many people endorse and vote for candidates and policies that are almost objectively bad for themselves and others. This can be exemplified by people who are insured through the Affordable Care Act but are in favor of yet ongoing efforts to gut it. To avoid this plain display of ignorance, make sure that you know what you are talking about and why you are taking a stance, whatever it may be. Most high schools require that students take a government and civics class before graduating, but you can expand your knowledge with a simple google search.
2. Keep up with current events
This goes hand-in-hand with number one, and is pretty much self-explanatory. There is no way that you can be politically active if you are not aware of the issues and events that shape the political world today. Knowing what is going on in the world and the problems that we face will motivate you to stand for something. From current events you can draw a few issues that mean the most to you and focus on them. You can stay updated by watching or reading the news and following a diverse range of news sources on social media.
3. Join or start a club in your school
School is where teenagers spend the majority of their time, and what says youth activism like a school club? The range of clubs that fall under “politics” is broad and as such, you can pick and tailor your club to your beliefs and vision. Whether you start a chapter of a national youth political organization or a club that is specific to your school, make sure that you create goals you wish to reach within your club. Alternatively, you can join a club that already exists in your school. If you wish to start a new club, find out what the requirements are at your school.
4. Intern or volunteer at a political organization
Another common misconception about youth and politics is that political organizations would not be interested in having teenagers and students on board if they can’t yet vote- this could not be farther from the truth. In fact, political organizations specifically seek young people who are invested in politics. Because politics touch our lives in so many different ways, there is a wide range of organizations that you can choose to become involved with. You can volunteer at a local partisan committee or interest group, write for an organization’s publication, or intern at a local or national campaign depending on where you are located.
5. Pre-register to vote
Many states allow you to register to vote before you turn 18. Depending on the state, you can register when you turn 16, 17, 17 and 6-10 months, or if you will turn 18 before the next primary or general election. Preregistering ensures that you will be able to vote when the time comes so that you don’t have to worry about registering and possibly miss an election. Furthermore, evidence shows that pre-registration encourages youth turnout. Find out your state’s specific laws regarding preregistration.
Regardless of whether or not your plans for the future include working in government or public policy, being politically active is a critical part of what it means to be an American citizen. In fact, American democracy depends on it. The right to vote is important, but it is not the only thing that defines civic engagement. Remember that it is never to early to become active in politics, and that opportunities exist at every level to do so.
