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Student groups gather for Civil Student Shakedown
Speakers urge young people to get active
By Ryan Cardarella
“I think the idea of apathy is a lie. A ton of people do know and care about what is going on.” -Civil Student Shakedown organizer Heidi Heimerl
Several non-profit and activist organizations gathered to stimulate involvement and unity among young people during last week’s Civil Student Shakedown in the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Spaights Plaza.
Urging involvement and unity among young people on issues such as the war in Iraq and global warming, speakers at the event emphasized the ability of college students to impact policy if they get involved.
“We need to flex some political muscle if we want to make an impact and get issues on the ballot in 2008,” said UWM student Dana Schultz. Others expressed frustration towards perceived social and political apathy among our current generation.
"We just stand around. There is no outcry. We are just standing by apathetically and allowing our lives to be run. We are just walking to class," said Jay Burseth, speaking on behalf of the Students for a Democratic Society.
UWM student Katie Jesse echoed those sentiments and challenged students to seek opportunities to contribute to society.
"Activists are retiring and wondering who is going to replace them. These people aren't going to be around forever, and we need to fill those spots," said Jesse.
Shakedown organizer and UWM student Heidi Heimerl is confident that the current generation can rise up and fill that void.
“I think the idea of apathy is a lie. A ton of people do know and care about what is going on,” said Heimerl. “I’m optimistic because I’ve met a lot of people who are really motivated to make a difference. The pendulum is beginning to shift.” Members of WISPIRG, Students for a Democratic Society, Planned Parenthood, the Milwaukee Network for Social Change and other groups had representatives at the event.
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