DeJane Ross with SGJC Student News Network
The 2024 election is a pivotal moment for the youth as young voters are participating and showing their support in numerous ways. Social media is a huge contributor to the overall rise in youth engagement. “I feel like getting more information through social media about the voting process is more effective,” said Madison Hamlet, a freshman from Morgan State University.
Social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and X are used to share information about the election, candidates, and pressing issues. Today’s world is all about influence and with many social media influencers on the rise, they are using their platforms to discuss important topics, including the presidential election and political issues like climate change, racial justice, education as well as healthcare. These influencers encourage young people to get out and vote. The want to show youth that they really have a voice, and their vote, in matters.
Young voters have been combining digital activism with traditional political participation to show their support in this year's presidential election. With Vice President Kamala Harris as a candidate, many Greek sororities and fraternities are supporting her campaign. Harris’ membership in the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and being an alumnus from Howard University have helped her gain significant numbers of young African American supporters.
“I have strong opinions about women’s rights,” said Imani Lewis, a freshman from Morgan State University.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority women have been seen at rallies, protests, and conventions in support of Harris. Some young voters sense they can relate to Harris because of her upbringing and college experiences. “I feel like Harris has a good way of addressing immigration concerns because of her cultural background,” said Hamlet.
Students have been able to volunteer more in schools and surrounding areas, participating in events like voter registrations and town hall meetings, which have made a huge impact on the community. Some organizations such as ‘Paint the Polls Black’ have always emphasized the importance of youth voting, especially in underprivileged neighborhoods. Moreover, organizations in Baltimore such as Students Learn, Students Vote (SLSV), Black Girls Vote, and Baltimore Votes all urge young adults to participate in elections. They instill in them that throughout the uncertainties, and complications of voting there is access to information that will help them navigate through the electoral process.
Some states have implemented new voting laws such as voter ID requirements, limited mail-in and early voting, residency requirements, and changes in polling location. These requirements may come as a challenge to young voters, but it doesn’t limit their willingness to do what is necessary to participate in this year’s election. The 2024 presidential election is expected to pave way for all young voters in future elections. This year, young voters have likely understood that voting impacts much of their lives, influencing issues that affect their futures.