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Where is our O'Bama?
Do young people belong in Irish politics?
So the United States of America, and indeed the western world, has a new leader. Not only is he black, left of centre and independent from the old boys club, he’s also young. Well relatively young.
We’ve heard the distracters claim that young means inexperienced, a lack of wisdom or lacking in direction. Whilst there may be some truth to be found in aspects of this, perhaps more emphasis should be put on the value of youth.
Youth brings with it energy, ideas, enthusiasm and vision. Lack of baggage and bitterness from past disappointments can drive action for change at a pace the old guard could only dream about. In the case of Obama there's also the not insignificant factor that he is simply the leader of a much bigger party, and a much bigger movement than him. There's the Kennedys and the Clintons, those from the old school, those that have been around, learned the hard way (or not!), and can perhaps offer valuable counsel and direction when needed.
In a world that needs urgent action and a new vision to tackle climate change, inequality, recession and global conflict; this mix of young energy leading the charge backed by old wisdom is possibly the recipe for change if we're to overcome our vast problems. The world needs it, the U.S. needs it and Ireland, (where the average age of our TDs is 52) screams out for it.
We want to hear what YOU think about the state of youth participation in Irish life, and we'd love to hear from young politicians and activists, those who work with young people and those who simply don’t have faith in the system.
What do you think?
Do you think it’s important for young people to play their part? Can they play an active part in leading the country?
We want to hear from you! Email comments to examiner@SpunOut.ie, or discuss this in the forum and we'll publish a selection of your comments here soon.
Have your say:
Email: examiner@SpunOut.ie
Discuss in the forum by clicking here.
