By Amy Ta
Staff Writer
High schools are meant to expose students to new experiences and beliefs through the views of other students and staff. Students should not feel the need to repress their opinions because others disagree or shut them out based on their views. It will only grow the political divide in our school.
I tend to lean liberal, and I sometimes judge someone based on their political views. However, this is a habit I try to fight as much as I can. Lately, I’ve heard stories from students that they do not voice their more conservative opinions before their more liberal friends or classmates because they don’t want to be judged or harassed. Our closed-mindedness quiets students out of fear.
The divide in our school is a reflection of what is happening in our country. According to Pew Research, around 39% of Democrats believe that Republicans are harming our country, and 43% of Republicans believe that Democrats are hurting the country. We have seen it happen at the 2020 Sacramento protests: a group of Republican protesters encountered some Democratic protesters and the groups brawled.
Students often follow their beliefs and disregard those whose beliefs clash with theirs. Still, we should have an open mind, especially when it comes to opinions we disagree with. We should accept that people have different views on events.
To create an environment where political polarization is minimal, students should understand different views. In political situations, we should disregard stereotypes about students’ preferred party.
If a student talks about their political views, be accepting even if you don’t agree with them. Understanding others’ view of events will make them feel comfortable. We need to tolerate other beliefs to create a safe environment for students.
However, students are not the only ones who can do something about the political tension. When having political discussions in the classroom, teachers must not influence the conversation with their opinion but instead bring in both sides’ viewpoints. It creates a more sympathetic and less judgemental setting for students. Many students feel uncomfortable with their identities being known, but websites like Nearpod make these conversations anonymous.
Overall, it is essential to be more open to ideas and people. Look past the stereotypes that are associated with each political label and take the time to appreciate their different views. Healing our political divide is something that will take time, so why not start now?