What Does It Mean to be Politically Active?

Honestly, what does it mean in a time and age where it is vital to know your rights, your views, and your morals, how can we educate ourselves and be more politically active?
As young people, maybe just reaching the voting age or just wanting to be more knowledgeable of the world of politics, it can be difficult to find the resources and means to do so. Within the past year, the political climates of the world have taken our news and other media outlets by storm, flooding news media with stories on the presidential election in the US, the UK’s recent Brexit actions, and the refugee crisis happening in within the Middle-East. This information is necessary to know, but it can also be overwhelming and difficult to digest all at once. Especially when it is seen everywhere, not just in the news, but on Facebook, Twitter, platforms such as Buzzfeed, and even during discussions in class or everyday life. These news stories can ignite passion and a desire for change. Here is what can be done as a young adult to properly activate politically.
Research
Do your research. Avoid social media, although Facebook and Twitter have an abundance of articles, videos, and political opinions covering your feed, it is better to find information elsewhere. While these social media platforms are the most accessible for the younger generations, not all the news and information presented on them can be considered credible and informational. Instead, turn to the news, go online, pick up a newspaper. Read the same article from multiple sources, find what you agree with and what you disagree with, not after just one source but several. Research is key in helping to formulate an educated political opinion.
Discuss
Ask others what they think, trade thoughts and ideas, and engage in healthy discourse. This is easier said than done considering politics is a highly-debated subject, and can easily turn into an intense argument amongst some people. We’ve all heard at least once, not to “bring up politics at the dinner table”. Yet, it’s necessary to do so to learn. So, talk to people. Gather friends, speak to a trusted adult, and participate in discussion. Listen to each other, and if you disagree with someone explain why, offer a mutual respect to have differing opinions. To recognize this creates a comfortable environment and you may even learn something new.
Activate
Lastly, take charge and be active. History has proven how much can be done when people stand up for their beliefs and views, and that differences can be made. Continue to participate in the political sphere through voting when you can, supporting your beliefs, and igniting change in the world.