Why I Created Students for Democracy

On the morning of November 6th, I languished in despair. After a few months of hope in the shadow of darkness, the worst had arrived. Like many activists and politicos, I gave myself a few months to recover from a grueling campaign and an emotional roller coaster of a year. However, once I had stuffed myself with turkey and enjoyed the holidays with family and friends, I knew something had to be done. 

Yet, it took awhile for the idea to materialize. I had always dreamed of having a platform where I could share my views with the world and voice support for candidates and policies. But how?

I must admit, the pain of MAGA’s 2024 victory did not vanish with the new year, but once the inauguration came and went, I was left with a familiar feeling: anger. Not the selective, performative outrage of the liberal news media, but deeper anger towards a new presidential administration that seemed set on upending constitutional norms and undermining the rights of the marginalized. 

Like many individuals, I find anger to be an easier feeling to deal with than sadness. The nice thing with anger is that you can channel it into something positive, and that’s precisely what I am here to do.

My Unique Perspective 

Even though I’m only 15 and can’t vote, I still bring important perspectives to the table. All of the young people who are part of the movement to stand up for our country and fight for our values bring experiences that are unique and prescient in these times. 

As a sophomore in high school, it seems like all I have ever known is craziness, but I’ve always been true to myself and my values. I was raised to stand up for what I believe in and to never give in to bullies. I was told “Life is about showing up”, and I do my best to embody that every day of the week. 

When I was younger, my parents always took me to go vote with them. I was in awe that one little mark on a piece of paper could change history. I still cannot wait for the day I can finally vote for myself. 

My first protest was after the Charlottesville Unite the Right rally. I was too young to get really involved, but I remember going to a local train station to cheer on those who were fighting against hatred and bigotry. When a reporter asked seven-year-old me why I was there and what I thought of the events of the world, I responded with something along the lines of “I just want peace and for people to be happy and to love each other.” I didn’t know all the details, but I knew I had to show up. 

My childhood then consisted of a series of protests. Whether I was wearing butterfly wings to support migrants or standing in a snowbank calling for impeachment, I wanted to be a part of it all. My crowning achievement was the climate rally I held across from my school in 5th grade. Over 60 individuals showed up including students, parents, teachers, and elected officials. We proudly stood there and asked our government to do something about climate change, an issue that uniquely affects young people. 

Then COVID hit. Our Earth Day rally moved online and my activism stalled. I managed to get involved in different ways through helping out with the 2020 election and volunteering with local elected officials. 

In the last few years, my involvement in the political field has largely been in the form of parades. I’ve doled out the charm for St. Patrick’s Day, Memorial Day, The 4th of July, Labor Day, Halloween, and practically every community event you can think of. I love innocently handing out candy and stickers to children only to receive heckling and shouting from their parents who disagree with me. However, nothing beats community engagement. 🤪

Why This Matters Now

In creating Students for Democracy, I aim to offer a platform not just for my voice, but for young people everywhere who are ready to fight for the values that matter most—justice, equality, and our future. This isn’t just about me; it’s about standing together, using our anger as fuel, and taking action. Our generation will be the ones to inherit the world, and I believe it’s our responsibility to make sure it’s a place where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, has a chance to thrive. This movement is about showing up, raising our voices, and making sure democracy isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we protect and build for everyone.