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The author of a book about Generation Z – people born in 1997 or later – believes that members of Gen Z have faced more challenges in their young lives than any generation since World War II. In this interview, he describes the defining events of Gen Z’s time and explores how those events impacted the generation’s outlook and attitude. Listen to learn how the author researched his book, and hear members of Gen Z discuss their experiences and perspectives.
Story Length: 5:42
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November 15, 2021
3:42
Thousands of young people protested outside the gates of COP26, the climate conference in Glasgow, Scotland, where world leaders were negotiating agreements about actions to slow the earth’s warming. The protesters are angry about the slow pace at which leaders have been moving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, given the intensity of the effects of climate change. They also want wealthy nations to take more responsibility for the problem of climate change, which disproportionately affects developing countries. Listen to hear the voices of young protesters demanding action and urgency around the climate change crisis.
Read MoreSeptember 22, 2020
4:05
A majority of eligible young voters have not voted in recent elections, but the 2020 presidential election could mark a change in that trend. This year, many young people have become civically engaged, motivated by issues such as racial justice. A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization aims to boost youth activity at the polls. The group sets up voter registration programs in high schools, where students can lead efforts to register their peers. Listen to hear a high school senior explain why she encourages her classmates to vote, and learn why a professor believes civics education needs to change.
Read MoreSeptember 15, 2020
4:37
As the 2020 presidential election approaches, many young people feel that voting is an essential component of active citizenship but not enough by itself. Youth today are more engaged in politics than in years past, and a large number of them plan to vote. But they also believe political action, including public protests, is a crucial way to bring about social change. Listen to hear young people talk about why they participate in protests and learn how increased youth activism could help boost voter turnout.
Read MoreJune 12, 2019
3:29
Students around the world have been skipping school to protest their governments’ lack of action on climate change. Now, this movement has come to the United States. American students are gathering together to demand that Congress take action to protect them from the effects of climate change. Listen to find out more about what students are asking of their government leaders and why.
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