How many of us feared our futures when Trump was elected the first time? And how many of us were even more scared when he got put into office again? From mass deportations to attacks on transgender rights, the Trump administration has done nothing but continue to silence marginalized communities. But rather than accepting the oppression, we continue to resist it. As my generation proceeds to endure this fight against Trumpism, we recognize that our resistance matters now more than ever.
We all know that change is uncomfortable and inevitable, but that does not mean we have to be afraid of it. That fear is exactly what previous generations have failed to overcome. It has been proven that Generation Z has been one of the most politically active generations so far. Numbers show that nearly 1/3 of my generation is involved in activism or social justice work, which surpasses the 24% of Millennials involved in similar efforts. We have organized plenty of protests and strikes regarding the current state of our climate, racial equality, and have critically affected election outcomes. Unlike past generations, we have been blessed with the platforms needed to challenge the status quo. And we will continue to use them to amplify our activism, educate the ignorant, and take a stand against Trumpism.
Historically speaking, we know that marginalized communities have always been on the frontlines of resistance. We’ve seen it in the fight for civil rights, the Black Panther movement, and more recently, in the Black Lives Matter and Stop AAPI Hate movements. These movements were formed and are led by people who are queer, people of color, and women —those whose very identities are under attack. The intersections of our identities make this resistance not just necessary, but crucial. Because of these movements, we know firsthand what is at stake in a Trump-led America, and our refusal to back down goes on.
While others may argue that my generation is filled with young people who are too radical and too idealistic to truly have an impact, I’ll argue that history says otherwise. Youth-led activism is just one way to get our point across. There’s a reason why Simone Jacques —a 17-year-old girl from Mission High School— was able to mobilize thousands and thousands of people to protest for George Floyd in March of 2020. This goes to show that we’re not just angry; we’re organized and determined to make a change.
Recognizing the power and potential of youth activism is crucial —and it is no time to slow down. We are active agents of change, and every action, big or small, strengthens the resistance. Register to vote, show up to protests, and do your best to educate those around you. The fight against Trumpism and oppression is far from over, but with unity and resistance, we can shape a future that is beneficial to everyone.
Works Cited
“The Gen Z Activism Survey – United Way NCA.” United Way of the National Capital Area, March 2024, https://unitedwaynca.org/blog/gen-z-activism-survey/#:~:text=Nearly%20one%2Dthird%20of%20Gen,percentage%20escalates%20to%20nearly%2040%25.. Accessed 14 February 2025.
Graff, Amy. “17-year-old Mission District teen leads protest of thousands in San Francisco.” SFGATE, 3 June 2020,
https://www.sfgate.com/news/slideshow/Simone-Jacques-Mission-District-protest-203235.php. Accessed 14 February 2025.
