We’re Expected to Change the World Without Being Heard

Adults love to say that Gen Z will fix everything. Climate change. Racism. Mental health. Education reform. We are called “activists,” “trailblazers,” “the most progressive generation.”

But when we speak up in school board meetings or push for change in our communities, we are told we’re too young to understand. We’re praised in theory and ignored in reality.

🎧 The Mixed Messages

We are told to be leaders, but not to be loud.We are encouraged to take initiative, but not to question rules.We are expected to innovate, but not to criticize what’s broken.

So many of us are doing the work, organizing, researching, and educating. And still, our voices get filtered through adults who think they know better.

🧠 It Takes a Toll

It is exhausting to keep pushing when the people in power only listen halfway.Sometimes we are only heard when we make our message sound comfortable.Sometimes we are only included for the photo, not the decision.Sometimes we get left off the invite entirely.

We want to change the world. But we are tired of feeling like a talking point instead of a partner.

🔧 What Real Support Looks Like

• Make space for youth voices in policymaking, not just in clubs

• Fund youth-led initiatives with real money, not leftover grants

• Let students vote on the changes that affect their schools

• Stop expecting free labor from student leaders who already carry too much

If adults trust us to shape the future, they need to trust us to shape the present.

💬 Final Thoughts

We are not asking for a spotlight. We are asking for a seat at the table and a vote that counts.Stop expecting us to save the world without letting us speak.