Today's youth, and the American population in general, have been criticized for not being as politically active as those who notoriously and passionately demonstrated on college campuses 40 years ago. While the 1960s have historically been considered a period of increased grassroots movements, many claim the fervor of collegiate activism has waned through the years and has been replaced by general apathy.
Some, however, think the tide may be turning - or at least they hope it is.
In a discussion titled "Activating Democracy: How grassroots movements can revolutionize politics," sponsored by Leadership for Change and international active citizenship foundation FONDACA, panelists described their views on the current state of political activism and its importance for the future. Panelists included Giovanni Moro, president of FONDACA, Charles Derber, a professor in the sociology department, and Lt. Gov. Tim Murray.
Derber said in the United States there is what he calls a "deficit of democracy," or a lack of participation in the democratic processes upon which our nation has been historically founded.
"This is one of the most historically energized countries in regard to these movements, and yet there is still a disengagement," Derber said. "It has succeeded in driving most Americans outof the political system. They don't care. They don't believe in democracy and they don't vote."
Recent campaigns have targeted this lack of participation, particularly among young voters.
Campaigns such as Rock the Vote, which in the past has utilized celebrity endorsements, and Smackdown Your Vote!, sponsored by World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., are designed to encourage participation in the upcoming presidential election.
Similar efforts also can be found at Boston College through campaigns such as BC Votes, which aims to establish an atmosphere on campus that encourages voting in elections for the Undergraduate Government of Boston College (UGBC) by attempting to increase understanding as to why students should vote.
