From the Editor’s Desk
Editorial by Heather Gray Niziolek
Back in 1988, when I graduated high school, civic engagement wasn’t exactly top of mind for most of us. We were busy teasing our hair to new heights with Aquanet, rocking out to hair bands, and marveling at the newly launched MTV. “Rock the Vote” hadn’t even begun yet—that didn’t come around until 1990. I can tell you, I wasn’t sitting around talking politics with my friends. But I did have a secret weapon when it came to voter registration: my mom. A proud women’s libber, she wasted no time on my 18th birthday, marching me down to the old library in town to make sure I registered to vote. As far as I knew, I was very much in the minority back then, but my mom made sure I understood how important it was to make my voice heard.
And speaking of connections, I graduated high school with Mrs. Candace Fikis’ husband, which makes it even more special to see her continuing the tradition of civic involvement in our town. Fast forward to today, and it’s like we’re living in a different world. These high school students seem so much more grounded and aware than we ever were. At a recent home football game, I was amazed to hear announcements reminding students to register to vote. And it wasn’t just talk—there was actually a place set up for students to register right there at the game. Can you imagine that happening back in the ’80s? The biggest decision we made at football games was whether to go for nachos or popcorn.
Then, there was the recent candidate forum at West Chicago Community High School, organized by Mrs. Fikis and the League of Women Voters. This wasn’t just a lecture for the students; they were actively involved—writing questions, moderating the event, and asking DuPage County Board candidates like Greg Schwarze and Rick Gieser some pretty tough questions. These students aren’t just spectators; they’re learning how democracy works by participating in it.
In today’s world, it’s more important than ever for students and young adults to get involved early. Voting is one of the most direct ways to impact your future, and the earlier young people start participating, the more likely they are to continue throughout their lives. According to research, voting habits are often formed in early adulthood. People who vote in one election are more likely to vote in the next, making it crucial for young people to establish a pattern of civic engagement.
In fact, voter turnout among young adults (18-29) surged in recent years, especially in the 2020 presidential election, which saw 50% of eligible young people casting their ballots. This generation is more politically aware and engaged than previous ones. But there’s still work to be done—historically, younger voters have had the lowest turnout compared to other age groups, so continuing to promote voter education and engagement is key to maintaining this momentum.
In our community, this is particularly significant because many of these young people are first-generation Americans. I am too. My father came to America as a boy, and his father made the journey here because of the freedoms and opportunities this country offers its citizens. I suppose this is why I take being involved so seriously. My family’s story is not unique in West Chicago, and maybe that’s why these students today are so engaged. They understand, perhaps better than I did at their age, what’s at stake. They know that the right to vote is something to be cherished and protected.
It’s inspiring to see this shift. I can’t help but think about how much further along these students are compared to where we were at their age. When I was 18, politics felt distant and abstract. Today, it’s clear that young people see the impact of policies on their lives, and they’re eager to participate. Mrs. Fikis and her efforts to encourage civic involvement are nothing short of remarkable.
In a time when information is more accessible than ever, it’s wonderful to witness a generation that is not only taking in the facts but actively working to influence their future. From the football field to the candidate forum, students today are voting with their voices and proving that democracy is, indeed, not a spectator sport.
As someone who had to be dragged to register to vote, I can’t help but applaud these young adults who are stepping up without hesitation. The times have certainly changed—for the better.
Let me know if you’d like any more tweaks!