THE world we live in today is full of noise. Some are loud yet unnecessary, while others carry urgency and cry for help.
Because of digital technology, we can access information across the world in real time. Thus, we see the realities of oppression and violence. We become aware of destroyed cities, displaced families, and children dying from starvation.
It can be easy to scroll past disturbing news in our news feed at any time to our convenience, but I refuse to look away. And the youth are choosing not to.
Choosing Not to Tune Out
In this generation, silence is not neutral. Whether speaking about the killings of journalists in Gaza, the war in Ukraine, famine in Sudan, or even the aggression of Chinese coastguards against our own Filipino fishermen. It’s heartbreaking that almost all of these are happening concurrently in the world. Not experiencing injustice and difficulties doesn’t mean it’s not happening to others.
Being “too online” sometimes is useful because I become aware of the current realities other people experience. Those hashtags and threads allow stories and news that are not often seen in mainstream media to be known.
I see posts of people my age barely surviving and displaced from their homes because of airstrikes, or innocent children with their skin almost sticking to their bones. Moments like this make you question whether humanity is still intact in humans. How can we allow this to happen to other people? I may not hold a position or power, but empathy and compassion are not limited to authorities or philanthropists.
In these trying times, it doesn’t cost the youth to give compassion and empathy. It’s not just about feeling sad for others; it’s caring enough to take action. And I also noticed that young people join solidarity through their artworks, photographs, infographics, and even by calling out global leaders for accountability. In their own ways, they strive to make a movement.
Creating a Culture of Compassion
Empathy and compassion go beyond moral obligation. At present, some people have the mindset of not caring enough because it doesn’t affect them; in short, it’s not their problem. War thrives because there is a lack of compassion, and the youth continue to break this cycle.
I remember a well-known quote from Dr. Seuss’ book, The Lorax: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” This quote is timely because change will never happen if we fail to take a stand and care for our society. Nothing will get better, and indifference will remain.
It serves as a reminder that youth involvement is important. It’s a call for us to step up.
I know I can’t single-handedly stop injustices, hunger, and violence, but looking away is not an option. I know that my choices, no matter how small, are part of a bigger movement that seeks to care and share knowledge in the ways that I can.
We may be young, but we’re not powerless. Young voices are fueled with grit that refuses to be quiet because those who are struggling need to be seen.
