Katelyn Wilburn, Campus Carrier opinions editor

College campuses have always been a place for learning. Whether it is lectures or peer discussions, students are always learning how they can further evolve and change the world. But today, in a time of deep political polarization and threats to American democracy, students seem to be keeping most of their political actions on their social media platforms. This complacency needs to change. If students organize more protests both on and off campus, they will be capable of disrupting communities that have grown too comfortable, providing initiatives that will ensure student voices are heard. 

In our classes, we often discuss the injustices of history and our current time. We analyze power and challenge flawed systems in discussions, interpreting and redefining the reasons why society struggles with certain flaws. Protesting is simply an extension of this educational power, because when students organize demonstrations, walkouts or sit-ins, they are practicing the type of civic engagement studied in history courses. 

Student-led protests are ways we can target problems that immediately affect us. Students are directly affected by issues such as loan debt, climate change, discrimination and threats to free expression. When protesting issues like as these, we are directly acting towards shaping their own futures. Think about the women’s rights movement. The concept seemed so radical for its time, but now it is widely accepted in the U.S. Less student activism can delay progress, and protects powerful individuals at the expense of necessary change. 

Although some argue that protests can disrupt campus life or make individuals uncomfortable, it is disruptive protests that lead them to accomplish their goals. In fact, these inconveniences are exactly what our social climate needs. Most individuals are too caught up in their everyday routine to stop and take account of all the issues surrounding them. Comfort does not facilitate change. A polite silence in nice and easy for everyday life, but if we provide just enough tension and accountability, then we will make change. 

Organizing protests can help students develop many amazing skills that they can take with them outside of college settings. Organizing a movement of large impact requires communication, leadership and determination. Students learn how to gather a large group of people and place purpose into their collective actions. These are skills that employers will value in the future. Additionally, it will encourage further democratic actions and critical thinking. 

Nonetheless, organizing a protest can be a large commitment, with many issues that could occur. Administrators can respond to these protests with increased restrictions, especially on private campuses. This approach is short-sighted. If our institutions prioritize our dialogue instead, they could encourage student engagement by responding with transparency. For instance, Berry doesn’t place restrictions on protests, and administration is open to them. Still, it is important to recognize that many private colleges do not support student protests.

Students can test, challenge and contest the issues that surround them and their loved ones’ lives by organizing protests that align with current political or campus events. If students don’t protest, it can easily be considered a sign of harmony, but it’s actually a sign of disengagement. Our education relies on our voices being heard so that we can focus on creating the world we wish to exist in. Some good organizations that assist in organizing protests are the Party of Socialism and Liberation of Atlanta or even Indivisible.