Chloe-Amelie Aikman
There seems to be a pattern of action whenever a tragedy in the United States takes place. The incident receives maximum media coverage, politicians tweet out empty promises and protests calling for change spring up around the country.
Soon afterwards, however, the media coverage dwindles, no political action is taken and even the most vigorous protests die out. Life in America seemingly goes back to normal until another tragedy occurs, perpetuating the cycle once again.
Society’s reactive nature generates this thought process. Rather than being proactive and finding flaws within the system, we are forced to learn the existence of those flaws through calamitous lessons.
Whether or not they are addressed, problems exist. However, just because said problems are ignored by the media or general public does not eliminate the responsibility of civilians and politicians alike to solve them.
Take, for example, the controversial debate on gun control. The most recent major shooting that comes to mind for many is the massacre that occurred in Parkland, Florida last year. In the weeks following the shooting, gun control took centerstage on various media outlets, spawning March for Our Lives protests coast to coast and other protests that wished to protect Second Amendment Rights.
In the end, however, nothing was achieved in the political arena (Dick’s Sporting Goods discontinued their sale of rifles, but this is a commercial store).
In order to see change for the better, actions need to be taken even if there hasn’t been a tragedy. Protests should continue, awareness should continue to be raised and civilians need to pressure politicians to amend or create policies.
To be proactive, students can find causes that suit their interests. This can be done through a quick Google search or networking.
Some may also choose to get involved in causes that their friends participate in. This way, the experience may be more enjoyable for new volunteers.
Others, however, may not find any organizations that are working towards a specific cause they support. In this case, it is always possible to start a new movement dedicated to this cause. Though more difficult, this can be rewarding for the cause someone is passionate about.
Just as advocacy work is important for a cause, so is raising awareness, especially if the general public doesn’t have much knowledge about it. In the digital age, raising awareness can easily be done through social media campaigns or YouTube videos.
Yet another step that can be taken to bring change is by petitioning the government. While large protests in Washington, D.C. will bring the spotlight to an issue, it isn’t the only option. On a local level, anyone can easily get in contact with their congressional representative via e-mail or a letter.
It is important to keep in mind that change is never guaranteed. Knowing this, it is essential for people to continue to try and usher it in, otherwise the country will be at a stalemate. Society has no time to wait for the next tragedy to occur; there needs to be action now.