(This was originally published on November 1, 2008 – before the election)
Most pundits acknowledge that the likely Presidential election victory for Senator Barack Obama will be aided by the massive turnout of young voters. I think that part of this is due to the fact that the Millenials, or Generation Y, are more globally aware than previous generations.
Today, more American high school and college students study abroad than ever before.Study abroad at the university level has become mainstream, and its trickling down to the high school level. Global Leadership Adventures offers international travel programs for high school students to learn about different cultures and volunteer in Africa, Asia and Latin America.This increased global awareness is having an effect on politics.
When the McCain campaign tried to scare the public by constantly showing a photo of Obama in traditional Kenyan clothing, it backfired on Gen Y.Instead of being scared of other cultures, Gen Y-ers are respectful and culturally sensitive.Many became interested in going to Kenya to visit the town where Obama’s father was from.
