6 Ways That Teens Can Be Involved in Politics this Year

| Written by Emily Baer | 

As teens we often feel like our voices are not being heard and that we cannot make a difference in our community because of our youth, inexperience, and lack of respect among adults. This could not be further from the truth! Here are six ways that you can get involved and make a difference politically before the ballots are tallied this November…

1.VOTE!

What better way to make your voice heard than through voting? Although this does not apply to all teens, those of you who are 18 or older have the opportunity to vote this fall! Do not focus only on the Presidential election this fall, even though it garners the most media attention and will be a common topic of argument around the dinner table. Local and state politicians deserve your careful consideration and your vote too! In fact, you will be more directly affected throughout your life by your state and local leaders than you will be by national leaders.

2. Campaign for a Candidate

If you find yourself holed up in your house with nothing but a constant stream of “I’m so bored” filling your thoughts, and are passionate about your beliefs, then campaign for a candidate that you believe in! Candidates NEED you! A campaign cannot function without motivated people doing the behind-the-scenes work. This could be anything from answering phones at the local campaign HQ or going door-to-door and telling people about your candidate, reminding them to vote. Don’t limit yourself to only candidates for federal positions. Local politicians need your help and are often individuals that you may already be connected to since you’re from the same area.

3. Volunteer, volunteer, volunteer!

Not only will volunteering look great on your college resume (and potentially earn you some scholarships and help land you jobs!), it can help to make a real difference in your community. Find a cause that you are passionate about. You could do anything from helping a nonprofit to petting puppies at the animal shelter. Find your purpose and you will feel like you are making a difference. Many volunteers discover that they want to turn their volunteer work into a career.

4. Be Informed

Although this may not seem like involvement at first, it is an integral part of being involved in not just this election, but any election. Here’s why: In order to be involved you must first be informed. You cannot know where to devote your time and energy to if you have not researched the candidate or cause, their beliefs and platform. If their values don’t align with yours then you are wasting your time! Do some research first. Consult several news outlets to try to minimize bias. Ask people you trust. Read books on the history of that candidate or organization. Only then can you make an informed decision as to where to invest your time, but also whom to cast your vote for come election time.

5. Attend Meetings, Debates, Rallies

This may sound simple, but if a candidate that you are considering supporting hosts an event in your area, go! Be an active member of the electorate by going to the political events rather than simply hearing about them. Go to a rally, see a debate, observe a meeting. There are countless options for you to physically be a part of politics and this enables you to build important relationships.

6. Start A Blog

Who better to make your voice heard than… you! Put your writing skills to work by creating a blog that discusses what is important to you. Share your thoughts, insight, and predictions. Be creative! A blog is a fantastic chance for you to say what you want and be involved in politics this year. Push it out through your Twitter account to connect with like-minded people you don’t personally know and share on Facebook to keep your friends informed!