Today, the phrase “I’m not political” has become a common response to political conversation. This attitude is especially prevalent among young people, who may experience disillusionment with political systems, dissatisfaction with candidates and a deluge of divisive issues.
However, the decision to disengage from politics is, in itself, a political stance—one that carries significant consequences. As students, we have a unique opportunity to be aware, involved, and at the forefront of innovation and change.
We’re at a unique intersection of learning and growth, met with both the opportunity and responsibility to be politically aware.
On a surface level, refusing to engage with politics may seem like an efficient way to avoid conflict and controversy. Digging deeper, it actually means opting out of shaping the future we’ll live in.
At the core, the apolitical mindset seems to be a symptom of frustration. Political discourse is divisive, exhausting, and can feel irrelevant to daily life. It’s tempting to view it this way – as individuals, our impact on large-scale issues seems to be minimal. But the choice to ignore politics doesn’t mean that we’re not affected by the issues we avoid.
Economic decisions, healthcare, environmental issues, education funding and more all have significant implications for us – from affecting student loans and job prospects to the air we breathe and the future of the planet.
Policies are set in place, whether we engage or not. These policies affect our quality of life, from economic freedom down to basic civil rights.
To participate in politics is not to strongly endorse or idolize any candidate. Politicians are not celebrities and should not be treated as such. It’s up to us to hold them accountable, as huge aspects of our lives lie in their law-bearing hands.
Few politicians’ views fit perfectly with the needs, morals and values of every voter. But voting isn’t about personal admiration – it’s about making a choice between imperfect options and selecting the one that aligns most with your priorities. Waiting for the perfect candidate would mean waiting forever.
Focusing on policy rather than personality could aid voters in making practical, informed choices. By voting for a candidate who supports legislation that matters – like affordable housing, climate action or accessible education – we’revoting for tangible improvements, not perfection.
Apathy toward politics overlooks the privilege of being uninvolved. For those who face systemic inequities – whether it be due to race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status – political decisions can have immediate, life-altering impacts. Many do not have the privilege of choosing not to care about these issues.
The “I’m not political” mindset perpetuates complacency, allowing outdated systems to remain unchallenged and unchanged.
The current political climate is polarized and tiresome, and avoiding it seems to be a tempting form of self-care. These environments can be overwhelming and irritating, especially when amplified by social media and news outlet controversy. It’s understandable to be cautious about engaging in a divided political landscape but withdrawing comes with a cost.
Choosing to stay out of politics does not free us from the impact of its outcomes. It means we’re letting others make those decisions. Being involved doesn’t mean taking sides in every heated debate; it’s about taking responsibility for the future we want to help shape.
