I attended my first demonstration at the tender age of eight. Holding a sign alongside my grandmother, I felt a sense of pride and purpose. It was exhilarating to think I was contributing to something meaningful, stepping into a realm of political awareness and social responsibility. I didn’t feel exploited or like a mere accessory; I understood the significance of the cause I was supporting.
I strive to pass on this legacy of engagement to my children. Civic participation, particularly through protests, is essential now more than ever. This past summer, we rallied against the Confederate flag displayed at the South Carolina State House. Recently, we also protested against the unjust Muslim immigration ban proposed by Donald Trump. We embraced the full protest experience: crafting signs, ensuring my eldest, Oliver, age 7, had his own sign while my younger ones, ages 4 and 6, ran around, and engaging with fellow participants. We faced both supportive honks and shouts of dissent from passing cars.
Ultimately, we were active citizens making our voices heard in a participatory democracy. I believe it’s crucial for children to understand that they can advocate for themselves and others at any age. To ensure Oliver didn’t feel like just a prop, we discussed the issues at hand. We tackled tough subjects: the implications of the Confederate flag, the history of discrimination, the Civil Rights Movement, and even the tragic events surrounding the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church shooting. It was daunting territory, but necessary for Oliver to grasp why we were advocating for the flag’s removal.
Regarding the Muslim ban, we discussed the First Amendment and read “The New Colossus,” the poem that graces the Statue of Liberty. We examined the plight of refugees and the impact of such policies on diverse communities. Oliver was able to articulate his understanding: “We’re protesting the Muslim ban. It’s unfair because it violates the Bill of Rights.” That was a significant comprehension for his age.
I take pride in teaching my children that their voices matter. While the younger two may have been more interested in running around, their presence at protests instills the idea that standing up for beliefs is a normal part of life. Oliver held his sign with the same enthusiasm as the adults around us. Although he didn’t pay much attention to the speakers, he felt the energy of being part of something larger. He opposed the executive order and wanted to make his voice known.
Some people label this as indoctrination, a term that seems overly harsh. We teach our children about our faith, dietary choices, and more without calling it indoctrination. Why should political beliefs be treated any differently? As they grow older, I anticipate my children will form their own opinions, and I welcome that. If they disagree with me, they are free to opt out of attending protests. This freedom distinguishes teaching from indoctrination; one is voluntary, the other is not.
Yes, I allowed Oliver to experience the mixed reactions from onlookers. We stood with our signs, some people showed support while others expressed their dissent. I explained that everyone has the right to disagree, even if their delivery could be kinder. It was important for Oliver to recognize that opposition exists, and that it comes from ordinary people like us who simply hold different views. It sparked many conversations between us, and he seemed more puzzled than hurt by the experience.
I’m proud to bring my children to protests—not as mere props or cute kids with signs, but as engaged citizens learning the ropes of democratic participation. We advocate for causes we believe are harmful to society, which serves as a way of instilling values of right and wrong in them. If your convictions differ, that’s perfectly fine. Get your kids involved in the causes you believe in; perhaps we’ll cross paths at a protest, sharing signs and chants as you exercise your civic duties. I genuinely hope you’re guiding your children to do the same.
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In summary, involving children in activism fosters a sense of civic duty and empowers them to express their beliefs. It’s about teaching them the importance of participation without imposing beliefs on them. As they grow and develop their own perspectives, they can navigate the world of activism and political engagement with confidence.