Political Apathy Must be Addressed

For many teenagers, it is easy to feel as though one’s voice does not matter. Oftentimes, political discourse is something that feels reserved for adults only, and something even that is off limits at dinner tables and lunch tables. This is especially true in 2026, a year in which Americans are deeply polarized when it comes to issues like ICE, the economy, and the current administration.

Political apathy, which is a lack of interest or engagement regarding political processes, institutions, and civic responsibilities, arises from these feelings of separation and powerlessness. Moreover, political apathy can manifest in low participation in community initiatives and disengagement from civic discussions. To avoid these outcomes and learn how to become active citizens, we need to cultivate a school environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and exchanging ideas with those of differing perspectives.

This past January 30 and 31 were national “ICE Out of Everywhere” days of action and general strike organized in response to federal immigration enforcement actions in Minneapolis, Minnesota. High school students across the United States staged numerous “ICE Out” walkouts to show solidarity with immigrant communities and demand increased protection for those threatened by ICE violence. January 30 and 31, however, looked different at the high school. Rather than taking to the streets in solidarity, students remained inside, treating the walkout as a joke rather than a moment of necessary political engagement. This response reflects that participation with civic issues is not taken seriously enough within our school environment.

Increasingly, it is becoming normal at the high school for national events to be met with indifference, humor, or a sense that they exist far beyond the boundaries of students’ lives. However, when we become too absorbed in our daily routines and forget that we live in a privileged “bubble,” we too effortlessly overlook issues affecting thousands beyond our community.

Still, the story does not end with apathy. Although moments like these can highlight discouraging disengagement, they do not define the student body as a whole. Although many students opted out of mobilizing to make change on January 30 and 31, others remain actively involved in civics through organizations like the Political Activism Club, whose tagline is, “Spreading political awareness, one student at a time.”

To promote healthy discussion and active political discourse in the future, political conversations need to be treated not as taboo but rather as opportunities for students to learn to listen and engage thoughtfully with the world around them. Classrooms can serve as safe spaces where students can discuss their differing perspectives.