We, as young people, have been calling to be heard, but our voices have not been powerful enough to impact the world. Our call for Peace in decades past has often been dismissed and our hopes for the future dim with days passing. What can be done to alter the destructive path we are on?

I propose that we, young people, do not support a world that does not support our highest ideals. From peace to justice, equality to tolerance, our hope for a brighter future is compromised as we remain voiceless in a growing war-frenzy that might very well consume our world as we watch, helplessly.

Young people represent, at least in the US (and in many over-developed countries), the largest consumer market. Our buying power is massive - bigger than any other age group - and we invest each day, voting with each dollar, to push a giant system of capitalism and injustice forward.

STOP BUYING!

If our generation would stop buying for a day, a week, a month, we could leverage the only power we currently have to be heard. If we were to stop investing in any company which does not support and promote social justice, the economic impact of our choice would draw a lot of attention to our message. Many industries would be affected and the world could be shown that we will not stand for war, and that we will not accept it anymore.

Don't buy movies, CDs, video games, nike sneakers, gap sweathsirts, don't acquire more material things for a day (or until we see the changes we want) and let your voice be heard! This is our world, and our future that is at stake.

What message would that send to our peers around the world, too? I hope that we will find support and encouragement. This is something that anybody can do and join us in the effort; a simple way to express yourself and at the same time bring together a movement dedicated to ensuring peace and justice in our lifetimes.

Put your wallet away and let our dreams speak for themselves.

Peace,
Benjamin Quinto
Global Youth Action Network