To the youth of this nation,

I am both a baby boomer and a product of the 1960s. It has always been my view that had it not been for youthful protests, the Vietnam War would have lingered on far longer than it did. In the 1960s, youth tried to have a voice but we did not have much real power. Draft age was 18, while voting age was 21.

Today’s youth are protesting about their nation, which has slipped into unprecedented violence. Until last week, the very people who could bring about change have been listening to the donors who put them in power. You will be able to vote at age 18. Politicians are listening. You have power. Use it wisely, but use it.

Loita Hawkinson,

Kirkland