The force of political, social, and interpersonal conflict weighs heavy on the shoulders of today’s teens.
Over the course of the 2022 year, crucially memorable historical events occurred. During this exceptional year, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, which guaranteed a constitutional right to abortion. The Russo-Ukrainian War, which has resulted in 41,295 dead and 15,000 missing, began in 2022, and has yet to cease. These monumental events in history are just two of the many and often devastating events that have been brought to light since 2021; clouding the visions of teens living through this era and dampening the hope they may have for the future.
It can be difficult to imagine how to employ improvements in our world when it feels like it is stuck in an unproductive cycle which cant be altered. Opening up the conversation to what type of change the world seeks to see may be the starting point for improvements to come about.
“Life could be improved in 2023 by passing a law such that any form of media that feeds false or misinformation to the public be banned,” freshman Alon Doitel said. “So that people may stay informed of the absolute truth.”
Misinformation can be weaponized as a way to feed parties with false logical information, justifying abstract ideas in such a believable manner that it becomes difficult not to believe them.
“I think life could be improved in 2023 by removing all social media platforms,” freshman Cole Johnston said. “This would prevent less spread of misinformation.”
The media easily influences the ideas and beliefs of consumers. The world is fighting an invisible enemy; one that is completely vulnerable to believing what is posted on social media whether it be credible or not.
“Racism, sexism, and anti-semitism,” Junior Alessandra Gutierrez said. “[Is] displayed through social media which can influence younger audiences.”
Controversial topics tend to be avoided in the media, as those producing content often want to stick with safe topics that they know will please their audience.
“I would like to see more real world scenarios,” Senior Hiro Mukai said. “[A]nd movies that cover controversial topics and historical events.”
Portrayals of minority groups often lack fair representation in media; especially by largely known companies with big reputations like Disney.
“I would like to see more queer representation,” Junior Maya Wik said. “[E]specially in Disney movies.”
Social and political issues have also been brought to a head over the 2022 year. The wage gap between men and women currently stands at 17%, which is equivalent to women earning $20 less with every $100 a male makes.
“Even in the twenty-first century, women can feel insecure and unheard,” Junior Alessandra Gutierrez continued. “Women have lost the right to choose what they want to do with their own bodies.”
The rights of marginilized communities have long been butchered over the course of history, and over the past year, not much change has been adapted to the growing knowledge gained as more people voice their concerns.
“[2023 could be improved by] equal rights for queer people, people of color, the working class,” Junior Diego Jaime said. “I wish people would stop hiding under a veil of ignorance and accept that some people lead different lifestyles than them, and that is what makes life beautiful.”
The call for change is loud. Young people are yearning for positive adaptations to the year of 2023 moving forward from the past year;, and they will stop until action is taken.
“We are the problem, and unless we take action, nothing will change,” Junior Alessandra Gutierrez continued. “Future generations will suffer as a result of what we have left behind.”
