By L’Oreal Thompson Payton

Ever since the 2016 presidential election, Generation Z has been showing up and showing out when it comes to activism. But you don’t have to be a celebrity to make a difference. Whether it’s protesting to raise awareness for a cause you care about or donating to organizations that make a difference, there are hella ways you can get involved.

Resolve to Rock the Vote

If you’re a U.S. citizen, will be 18 by Election Day, and meet your state’s requirements, then you’re good to go. You can register online, at the Department of Motor Vehicles, at the library, or in person at your local election office. Want to do more than cast your ballot? Get your name on one or become a campaign volunteer for your favorite candidate. 

Resolve to Make a Statement

Graphic tees have become a popular way to let people know where you stand on an issue without having to say a single word. Take things a step further by buying your shirt from a company that supports a good cause, such as the Phenomenal Woman Action Campaign. It sells the official “Phenomenal Woman” T-shirt and uses those funds to benefit seven organizations for women and girls.

Resolve to Use Art as Activism

No doubt, you’ve got a lot on your mind. Tell the world how you really feel by starting your own blog, performing poetry at an open-mic night, or painting your view of the political climate. If Beyoncé’s legendary “Formation” video taught us anything, it’s that art can be used as resistance.

Resolve to Call Your Elected Officials

No matter your age, you can put your phone to good use by calling your local representatives about an issue (or several) that matters to you. It’s easy to find who reps you, too — just visit whoismyrepresentative.com. If talking on the phone isn’t your thing, check out Resistbot to deliver your message to Congress in two minutes or less.

Resolve to Volunteer Your Time

Want to help educate the electorate? Consider signing up to canvass at local events, where you’ll interact with new voters and teach them about civil rights, immigration, reproductive rights, and other issues. Passionate about the environment? Become a Zero Hour ambassador. An easy way to find your best fit is by Googling the word “volunteer” with the name of your city to see what kind of opportunities await.

On a mission to fill that void in the mainstream media, in which Black girls are virtually invisible, Sesi (a quarterly, print magazine for Black teen girls) celebrates them. As an independent magazine with very little advertising, we rely on the support of our community to continue publishing. You can show your support by subscribing or donating. Subscriptions are only $15 a year and you can donate any amount you’d like. ❤️