Dear Editor,
As it is a risk-free use of time for our generation to sit around in the living room talking about “the problem,” many of us believe that it is easy to call into question the acts of others.
In a recent letter to the editor, Brooks Smith stated, “To Ash-Lee (Henderson) and all who wish to be called ‘activists,’ let your ‘activism’ be more about solving the problem and less about highlighting the problem.” I would argue that to write about important issues in a public forum is one of the most needed forms of activism. Whether it be a school, political or social issue, it is acceptable, even responsible, for those of us who are capable to point out flaws in reasoning and action, regardless of whether or not we are in a place to provide a solution.
Is our generation so unconnected with the power of words that writing is no longer considered a powerful tool of change? Was Thomas Paine, the author of the famous pamphlet “Common Sense,” not an activist? Do the words of famous speeches not still inspire and mobilize others?
I agree that finding a solution is the most important aspect of dealing with the problems that we as a school and a nation face. It is up to us to demand that these solutions are reached by those who have been given their jobs based on their ability to act in the best interests of those they serve, (such as President Stanton, the Senate or local government.)
We as students, as citizens, as writers, must show that we are watching them, that we care about what they do, and that we can communicate fully our needs and wishes. Speech is our greatest weapon, and to use it well is to truly act for our cause.
– Emily Barry

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