I still remember my first protest at the age of eight, standing proudly alongside my grandmother, holding a sign that represented something I believed in. It felt empowering to contribute to something bigger than myself, to touch on the adult concerns of the world. At that moment, I didn’t feel like a mere accessory; I understood the significance of our actions.
Today, I carry that legacy forward with my children. I firmly believe in the value of civic engagement, which, especially in today’s climate, often takes the form of protests. Just this past summer, we participated in a demonstration against the Confederate flag displayed on the grounds of the South Carolina State House. More recently, we stood against the unjust Muslim immigration ban. We did all the typical things one would do at a protest: we made eye-catching signs, ensuring my oldest child, Max, who is seven, had one too (while the younger ones, ages 3 and 5, had fun running around).
We joined our fellow citizens in the streets, listening to speakers and engaging with friends. Our family stood along the road, receiving a mix of honks and jeers from passersby. It was a valuable lesson in participatory democracy, and I wanted Max to grasp that you’re never too young to stand up for your beliefs. To ensure he didn’t feel like a mere prop, we discussed the issues at hand. We delved into topics surrounding the Confederate flag, discrimination, and the historical context of the Civil Rights Movement, including the tragic events surrounding Dylann Roof and the Emmanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church shooting. It was daunting territory to navigate, yet it was essential for Max to understand why we were protesting.
When addressing the Muslim ban, we talked about the First Amendment and read “The New Colossus,” the poem etched on the Statue of Liberty. We discussed the plight of refugees and the impact of policies on those seeking safety in America. I was pleased when Max articulated, “We’re protesting the Muslim ban because it’s unfair and goes against the Bill of Rights.” Given his age, I couldn’t have asked for more.
I take pride in demonstrating to my kids that their voices matter. While the younger two may have been more interested in playing, their presence reinforced the idea that participating in protests is a normal way to stand up for oneself and others. Max held a sign just like the adults. Did he listen to the speakers? Not really. He often put his sign down to play, but he was there, expressing his dissent against Trump’s executive order, wanting to make his voice heard.
Some call it indoctrination, but that term feels too severe. We teach our children about our beliefs, from religion to dietary choices, without labeling it indoctrination. So, why should political beliefs be treated any differently? As my children grow, I anticipate they will form their own opinions that may differ from mine. If that happens, I won’t force them to join protests; they can choose to stay home. That’s the distinction between indoctrination and education—one is compulsory, the other is a choice.
Yes, I exposed Max to the shouts and jeers from people passing by in their cars. We stood on the sidewalk with our signs, and while some people honked in support, others yelled their disagreements. I felt it was crucial for him to witness opposing viewpoints and understand that it’s perfectly acceptable for people to disagree, even if their delivery could be kinder. I wanted him to realize that we don’t hold the monopoly on opinions regarding the Muslim ban; there are those who think it’s a good idea to keep refugees out. Rather than upsetting him, it intrigued him, prompting many discussions afterward.
I’m proud to bring my children to protests—not as props, but as emerging citizens learning to engage in the democratic process. We protest issues we believe are harmful to our society, and in doing so, I’m teaching them about right and wrong. Your definitions of right and wrong may differ, and that’s perfectly fine. I encourage you to get your kids involved and share your beliefs. Perhaps we will see you on the other side of the picket line, waving your signs and chanting, fulfilling your civic duty while teaching your children to do the same.
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In summary, involving children in activism is a way to teach them about civic engagement and the importance of their voices, without it being indoctrination. It’s about fostering understanding and encouraging independent thought, while also standing up for what we believe in.