Youth and Politics

I honestly don't know how many of you out there are becoming alarmed with the growing apathy to politics in our country. I say this as a member of youth community, trying become more involved and attempting to bridge some of the gaps between youth and politics. However I will admit it is not easy, young people are disillusioned with the constant "bickering", Scandals and general lying that politicians traditionally embark.

According to a recent article published by the Ottawa Citizen. When comparing the United States to Canada some "56 per cent of young Americans were unable to identify citizens as the category of people having the right to vote, compared to 43 per cent in Canada."

As well, "About 60 per cent of young people seem to have no ability to make relevant distinctions about political life in their own country. In Canada, it's a little bit better, but not much." - Researcher Henry Milner, the author of the study.

So then the question is "How do we change that apathy?"

Part of an NDP new strategy one that is becoming more and more publicized in the media, is the option of making civics programs not only taught earlier in school but made a mandatory full year course or 2 in High School.