From ’68 to ’08

From ’68 to ’08


Flying into Colorado on a late summer evening, I feel like the air is swirling with anticipation. On the plane, I’m reading a chapter from a book about the coming of age of a young journalist during the 1968 Democratic convention in Chicago. I can’t help but to recognize the similarities between then and now. There isn’t the same type of social unrest that existed back then (with outbreaks of violence against protesters), but there are many parallels to be drawn: An unpopular president waging an unpopular war, unspoken and ignored racial tensions and youth activism.

Another generation of young Americans, who encompass all racial backgrounds, has grasped the idea that their votes and opinions matter. It seems that the “apathetic” Generation Y is starting to ask not only why, but how? How can they be a part of changing the course of this country? And how can they take responsibility for the country that they will inherit?

Marcia A. Wade is the interactive reporter at BlackEnterprise.com.









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