Editorial: Student activism makes significant waves

By THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS EDITORIAL BOARD

Last week, the University of Mary Washington campus played host to Virginia Power Shift, in which students from all across the Commonwealth of Virginia came together in solidarity to raise awareness for various social, educational and environmental causes.

The weekend included more than 30 workshops that informed and motivated students to take action and dismantle systemic inequalities.

At the Blue & Gray Press, we look on proudly at our fellow students and their passion for progress, as they make gains to implement change in the world.

Each day, we hear amazing stories of young people all across the nation on the frontlines of revolution. These student-run groups continually prove that we are not here to sit idly by and watch the world go on without us. We are creating a future for the next generation. And for elders who like to point out the apathy of this generation or the leadership that we lack, we have many examples to prove otherwise.

We have seen two members of Feminists United submit op-eds, taking strong stances and shedding light on misogyny. Despite the backlash, they still remain strong on their beliefs.

We have seen students publically speak out against as well as in favor of the implementation of Greek Life, many highlighting concern for the safety of our students in light of the UVa scandal.

We witnessed students dedicate 4 minutes and 5 seconds of silence to Mike Brown, a young man who had so much more life to live.

We see DivestUMW working extremely hard and creating innovative and precise strategies to raise awareness for their cause with passion and zeal.

We see the Young Democrats and College Republicans informing students of political issues, the stances of their representatives and how important it is to vote, going as far as to provide free rides to the polls to cast ballots this past November.

These are just a few of the many amazing things UMW students have accomplished in the past year. We thank you all for inspiring us to continue and encourage these movements as best as we can.

As young journalists, we promise to do the best we can to ethically report on each and every one of you, ensuring that your voice rings throughout campus.

This mark of bravery that our fellow classmates display sets a spectacular example. As students join hands in solidarity, let us all remember what we are here for and to never become discouraged in the face of obstacles.

History shows time and time again that it is always young people on the frontlines of protests, marches and revolutions. Our grandparents did it and our, parents did it as well. Now it’s our turn.