Politics of Gen Z Chapter 3-4

A 3 NO MORE OLD WHITE MEN: How Role Models Shape the Political Engagement of Gen Z Women

Sabirah Mahmud's Journey

• Background: Grew up in Philadelphia; family roots in Bangladesh.

• Early Political Awareness: Witnessed the impact of climate change firsthand during a visit to Bangladesh in 2014.

• Inspiration: Motivated by Greta Thunberg's activism on climate issues, leading to her own initiative.

• Activism:

  • Organized school walkouts for climate justice.

  • Became the executive director of Pennsylvania Youth Climate Strike.

  • Established the Philly Earth Alliance to organize local efforts on climate action.

Influence of Family and Role Models

• Family Background: Parents involved in democracy protests in Washington, D.C. shaped Mahmud’s early political awareness.

• Commonality Among Gen Z Women: Many attribute their political engagement to parental influences or prominent female leaders.

  • Example: Xiye Bastida, a fellow climate activist, shared a similar journey shaped by climate change experiences.

  • Importance of Representation: Young women of color highlighted as critical role models in political spaces.

Effect of Recent Political Climate on Engagement

• Record Participation: Young women of Gen Z participated in politics at higher rates than young men, creating a historical reverse gender gap.

• Visibility of Female Leaders: Notable female candidates in politics emerged after the 2016 election boosted engagement among young women.

  • Example: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s (AOC) election and her influence as a relatable and progressive figure.

• Historic Achievements::

  • 2018 saw a record number of women running for political office, including diverse candidates.

  • Stacey Abrams' efforts mobilized voters and garnered national acclaim despite her election loss in 2018.

Role Models and Political Motivation

• Role Model Effect:

  • Political scientists identify that exposure to women in leadership positions inspires greater political interest among women.

  • The presence of women in governance promotes confidence and belief in democracy among females.

• Descriptive Representation:

  • Representation of gender and race in politics encourages political participation and activism.

Studies Supporting the Role Model Effect

• Research Findings:

  • Young women in districts with viable female candidates showed increased political discussions.

  • Engagement in political protests linked to parental activism.

  • Adolescent girls significantly exhibit a role model effect from engaged women leaders.

A View from Activists

• Focus Group Findings:

  • 95% of interviewed Gen Z women cited political role models, emphasizing politicians and historic activists.

  • AOC emerged as a dominant role model for many, highlighting her relatable persona and strong social media presence.

  • Importance of local leaders and personal connections in fostering political ambitions among young women.

Specific Influences

• The AOC Effect:

  • AOC’s background and relatability inspired many Gen Z women to take political action.

  • Positive engagement from Gen Z activists due to AOC's direct interaction via social media.

• Squad Impact:

  • AOC and fellow representatives like Ayanna Pressley, Rashida Tlaib, and Ilhan Omar formed an influential collective that advocates for progressive policies.

• Stacey Abrams:

  • Abrams’ efforts galvanizing voter registration efforts have encouraged women’s political aspirations.

The Role of Parents

• Familial Influence on Political Identity:

  • Parents significantly shape children's political views and engagement.

  • Experiences at home regarding political discussions impact future political activism.

  • Findings show a positive correlation between political discussions at home and children's political engagement indicators.

Empirical Evidence

• Survey Data:

  • Gen Z women following the trends show heightened political activity correlated with their parents' political discussions.

  • Gender social identity emphasized in engagement levels linked to female representation.

Feminism and Activism Among Gen Z Women

• General Attitudes Toward Feminism:

  • Increased identification with feminism among Gen Z women is aligned with growing participation in political activism.

  • Emergence of new feminist ideologies encompassing intersectional perspectives, including LGBTQ rights and racial equality.

• Empowerment from Activism:

  • Collective participation in movements such as the Women’s March has profoundly engrained political engagement in Gen Z women.

  • Social media plays a vital role in mobilizing and validating the voices of young feminists.

Conclusion

• Role of Role Models: The significance of diverse political leaders for fostering a politically engaged Generation Z.

• Future Implications:

  • The continued struggle for women's rights, including abortion rights post-Dobbs decision, significantly influences young women's political activism.

  • Emergence of a strong feminist ethos among Gen Z women suggesting a promising pathway for increased political participation in the future.