Generation Screwed; two words I never thought would be linked together to make Canada’s largest non-partisan student movement. The name speaks for itself – it’s intriguing and would want to make a person know more about it. That’s exactly what happened to me. What started off as a phone call, eventually led me to Generation Screwed’s Annual Retreat just two weeks later as the new Campus Coordinator for the University of Lethbridge.  

I didn’t grow up surrounded by politics, and honestly, I don’t even remember how I narrowed down my options to Political Science while filling out university applications. All I remember was that I wanted to make a change; I wanted to stand for something I believed in. The platform of Generation Screwed gave me this opportunity. Before I made my way to the retreat, I had the opportunity of talking to Generation Screwed’s Executive Director, Aaron Gunn. I was explained what the organization was all about and was attracted to its mandate immediately. I said yes to officially joining the campaign as the Campus Coordinator for the University of Lethbridge, and that’s when I realized that this was the beginning of the change I would bring to my community.

Raising awareness about issues you care about is the main reason I joined Generation Screwed. Over time, Canada’s federal debt has managed to grow to over $632 billion. That’s over $17,000 per Canadian! For university students, you can add to that your share of student debt and any other personal liabilities you may have. The main issue is debt, increasing debt, and raising awareness is one of the best ways to sound the alarm.

By holding events, visiting universities and making calls for political action, future generations of Canadians are able to gain more information about this issue so critical to their future. Getting the chance to raise awareness shows how much you care and believe in your cause. Not only does Generation Screwed allow you to raise your voice and support your opinions, it also gives you great opportunities. The biggest thing Generation Screwed gives in return for its support is a chance for you to make a name for yourself. By holding events and soliciting action you can make a huge impact, not only on your life but also on those surrounding you. There are many people who don’t voice their opinions purely for the judgment they think they will receive. Being a coordinator allows me to encourage people to voice their opinions – even if they are against the government.

Generation Screwed is a movement I’m honoured to be a part of. As a Canadian citizen, I feel like I have the right, even the obligation, to enlighten people on issues they probably didn’t know existed. Government debt is an increasingly pressing issue not only for this generation but for generations to come. Increased taxes and perpetual debt is not a pretty sight. Imagine all the possibilities and accomplishments Canadian governments could have achieved if the debt, and associated interest payments, weren’t this high. It’s high time we start thinking about future generations and the heavy burden they are being left with, and will continued to be left with, if we don’t start taking action now.

For more information:

 

 

Nidhi Patel – Campus Coordinator, University of Lethbridge

email: ulethbridge@generationscrewed.ca