Here We Go Again!
Curt (names changed for article) is a junior in education at Wright State University. He is part of a class that is learning about Democracy, and just how precious it really is.
‘We are all invested in saving the voice of the people. I say all, but I really mean, the people I talk to!’ Curt is worried…not so much about young people showing up at the polls, but about his future, and his classmates. ‘We are having to vote to reinstate and reinforce what our parents took for granted. That’s a problem. Why are things ticking backward? Where is the country they were living in?’
For Jordin, it’s a bit diferent. ‘This Class (ED2100:Education in a Democracy) has made me mad. I mean, that’s no fault of the Professor (who sits to her left). It’s the fact that it seems like we keep focusing in on old white guys. (Which their professor just happens to be.) Why are we only seeing these guys, and what’s worse, seeing them AGAIN! I mean, of all the people in this country and we have these 2 to choose from? Again? Time to evolve America!’
There are 18 students in the class, and weekly, topics that bring about the fundamentals of a Democracy are discussed. The professor likes to make sure that each week, a current event or issue is talked through.
‘We talk about it all. Feminism, LGBTQ, Guns, Drugs, Capitalism, Hate Speech, Religion….and so much more. These students have strong, educated opinions. They are engaged and have brains like sponges! They want information…’
Jodin interjects ‘But NOT misinformation! People think we look at TikTok and say ‘that’s reality…’ We are not stupid. We know when we are being led astray,’
Using Their Voice!
Sharnice jumps in, ‘And we can figure out what the media, no matter which side it is leaning into, is trying to sell. We grew up knowing that news is biased. Our parents didn’t. It was 2 or 3 stations and they gave out the headlines. Period. Now it’s some crazy-ass giving their opinion for 60 minutes at a time.’ She scoots back in her chair and raises her hand in a ‘ok, I’m done,’ fashion.
The Professor smiles and nods. ‘I want them to research that in particular. We spend time looking into reliable sources. Misinformation is a cancer. It’s nearly impossible to overcome. And, extremists on both sides, are allowing it to divide us very deeply.ON thing I stress ie Republicans and Democrats are Americans…that should be the tie that binds!’
‘At first, I was like, I’m not voting this time around…’ Curt adds. ‘Now, after having a chance to talk about stuff, I will always vote. And with a passion for it. Our professor pushes us…he tells us things that are balanced and fair. He defends both sides…’
Topics to Discuss!
‘Or doesn’t defend either side. This is how America should be talking! Like we do in class. Openly, and unafraid, We are watching our leaders act like fools. I mean, they don’t do their job. Why the hell aren’t they fired?’ Sharnice goes in hard…’Watching them go at each other, or fighting about WOKE, or calling names, or bitching about gas prices, when they have it all!! They literally have everything they need. I told our prof, why is it the ones complaining the loudest have everything? Money, big house, golf course? And they show up on tv…acting like somebody took something from them! Turn your attention to the U.S.A. We need shit!’
The group laughs, but feels the pain she feels. Sharnice shared she is barely able to afford school but she wants to teach kids and will find a way!
Ellie, finally, chimes in. ‘Everyone knows I’m one of the more conservative members of class. I do want to state I do believe in a woman’s right to choose, so don’t start in on me Jordin…’ they all laugh…’I grew up in a very religious household and those values carried me through a lot. I’m empathetic…and I try to be compassionate as much as I am able. I just think we have to protect our streets, We need to have great jobs. We need a strong economy. I feel like families are struggling. They will all tell you that I find a lot of liberal ideas are not well thought out. They are not tried. It’s like, ok that didn’t work, so now let’s spend a bunch of money on this. That seems dangerous at times. I think it’s unfair to hard-working people.’
You can feel a little tension in the room. Curt breaks the silence. ‘I hear what you are saying Ell, I do. I respect your strong opinion.’
WSU Students Talk It out!
To their professor, the class is working well when they get to this point. They are developing a way to ‘agree to disagree.’
Sharnice wraps up the conversation in a pretty little bow….’We have break in 6 minutes. Here’s what’s really cool. We all go together and get coffee at ReyRey and come back ready to talk so more! Look, who knows who will be our next leader. We just know it’s best to support each other!’
More to come as we head into the election of 2024…..
