Last week while shooting pictures for the cover of The State News’ activism issue, I found myself having to approach students on the street and ask them the question, “Why do you think that activism is important?”
As I was met with many blank stares and puzzled expressions, I came to terms with a troubling realization: a large number of MSU students have no idea what the word “activism” means.
Now if I am giving everyone the benefit of the doubt, I will admit that activism is a broad term that encompasses many different movements and issues. At times, it can be difficult to grasp such a widespread concept. However, in the light of recent displays of activism here on MSU’s campus, it is astonishing that there are actually students who have no idea what it is.
Last semester, a myriad of social justice issues made their way to our university. Race issues in Ferguson, Missouri sparked protests and rallies, and the selection of George Will as a graduation speaker inspired multiple petitions and debates regarding the seriousness of sexual assault on campus.
Students of all ages and majors banded together in displays of activism and unity that showcased widespread passion and interest for said issues.
But activism is about more than attending a protest or signing a petition. Activism is a mindset. Activism is a belief that things in the world are not as they should be, and that every person has the ability, and more importantly, the responsibility to work to change that.
Activism is power. It is believing that you have a voice and using that voice to stand up for what you believe in.
The only thing scarier than the issues of inequality that we face is the fact that they are being met with such apathy.
The first step toward making the world a better place is the awareness and knowledge that every person plays a role in the process. As college students, we represent the future, and it is up to us to decide how we want that future to look.
The world that we live in isn’t going to change itself, so it is on us to be aware, be inspired and be active in changing it for ourselves.
