Nicole Lee (Howard University) on the Millennial Generation

America is definitely seeing a shift in values through the current, “millennial” generation. America, as a nation, has a set of few shared values such as self-reliance (or individualism), freedom and liberty, equality, and the free market, as indicated by Dr. Wayne Baker at the University of Michigan. While core values seem to be fundamentally different in this generation, they actually are not changing. We’re just interpreting them differently this time around. Don’t get us wrong, we are very much still individualistic. We strive for success, want a life comparable to or better than our parents, and prefer to get there on our own. This country affords us many freedoms guaranteed by our constitution and we appreciate being able to pursue happiness and express our identities. We just understand that we have to work together to build a better future.

The Millennial Generation values a more communal, interdependent nation. We are not satisfied with inequalities as the status quo, not by ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion (or lack thereof), or location. We want our politicians to work for everyone’s interest, not just the wealthy elite or corporations. Educational opportunity remains a step to success here, but employment opportunity is the key in the face of economic inequality. We value social parity, as opposed to greed running amok. The challenges facing my generation are not unique; we still struggle with getting ahead and becoming productive citizens. Patriotism is still here! We love our country and just want it to be a better place for ALL citizens. Do the older generations hear us now?