It is often said that today's youth are quite liberal. Others add that Generation Y, or Millennials, as they are better known, are the "laziest generation" yet. According to the experts, we are less industrious, moral, and hardy than our forebears.
As the chairman of the Arkansas Federation of College Republicans, I would respectfully disagree with such statements of overarching characterization.
The conservative youth of our proud state are anything but members of the laziest generation. We are concerned citizens. We are active members of our local communities. We believe in a promising future, and we are willing to work for the American Dream.
In regard to the perceived "liberalism" of America's youth, we do in fact care about our neighbors (the idea of "caring" being a liberal buzzword). We greatly desire to share in the opportunity that our nation's democratic liberty provides. One might even describe us as "socially conscious."
While this idea of social consciousness is often attributed to liberalism, conservative youth are here to reclaim the idea that caring about individuals is not just a Democrat's concern.
While the traditional Republican mantra has been one of hard work and bootstrapping one's way to success, the Democratic mantra has been one of government empowerment. It's easy to see how people might be persuaded to vote Democratic. Nevertheless, that is not the message of the incoming generation of conservative leaders.
While we believe hard work is absolutely necessary, we emphasize that smaller government creates more opportunity. Smaller government empowers individuals to pursue their dreams without the shackles of bureaucratic red tape. We want a hand up, not a hand out. In reference to the age-old adage, we want to teach individuals to fish, not just give them a stamp for it.
As socially aware individuals, Arkansas Republican youth are also fiscally conscious. We understand that with a mounting national debt of almost $19 trillion, we will someday be responsible for the bill. It's not typical for youth to lecture their elders about monetary responsibility, but faced with college loans, job placement, and next month's rent, the national debt is a concerning crisis.
We believe that America cannot keep wading deeper into the waters of financial irresponsibility.
The youth of Arkansas are ambitious, engaged, and hopeful for a bright future. Our message is clear: We care that people are able to live the American Dream.
Our conservatism is not a selfish one, but one that desires for all individuals to have the chance to pursue their visions of life, liberty, and happiness.
Through limited government, expanded opportunity, self-determination, and personal responsibility, we are determined to flourish, and make this nation proud.
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Jeremiah Moore is the chairman of the Arkansas Federation of College Republicans, the largest youth political organization in the state.
Editorial on 02/11/2016