Gen Z Offers Timely Communications Advice for America's 250th Anniversary
Many members of Gen Z came of age during a period marked by significant disruption and change. Their formative years included the COVID-19 pandemic, a rapidly evolving technological landscape, and heightened public debate on a range of social, political, and economic issues. More recently, the growth of artificial intelligence has sparked both excitement and uncertainty about the future of work.
Against this backdrop, CommPRO asked several members of Gen Z how they view America's upcoming 250th anniversary and what messages they believe should emerge from this historic milestone.
"250 years of independence is such a massive milestone to celebrate," says Robert McClain, a recent Columbia College Chicago honors graduate who works as a marketing coordinator in the entertainment industry.
For McClain, one of the most important messages is that despite the disagreements that often dominate public discourse, America remains a place where people can openly exchange ideas, advocate for change, and support the causes they believe in.
"Small or large, voices have the opportunity to be heard," he says, adding that many members of Gen Z view the willingness to challenge institutions and advocate for progress as one of the country's strengths.
"Younger voices are often among the most vocal when it comes to issues such as equality, technology, climate change, and education," McClain says. "The freedom of expression and the ability to participate in public conversations are worth celebrating."
For younger Americans who may feel less enthusiastic about the anniversary, McClain believes another important message is appreciation for the country's natural beauty and cultural diversity.
"From quiet back roads to crowded cities, national parks to the lakeshore of Chicago, America holds tremendous beauty and culture waiting to be explored," he says. "Even during times of division, there is something grounding about appreciating the land itself and recognizing our shared responsibility to preserve it for future generations."
Offering a different perspective is Jayla Griggs, an honors student at Columbia College Chicago who grew up in downstate Illinois.
"As the USA approaches its 250th anniversary, many members of Gen Z feel uncertain about the future," she says. "We grew up hearing about freedom, opportunity, and prosperity, and many young people are now evaluating what those ideals mean in today's world."
Griggs says concerns about housing affordability and career opportunities have shaped how some younger Americans view the future.
"It can feel challenging to enter the workforce and achieve financial milestones that previous generations may have viewed as more attainable," she says.
Despite those concerns, Griggs says she still plans to celebrate the anniversary.
"I want to celebrate what America aspires to be," she says. "I hope that the 250th anniversary encourages us to reflect on our past and continue working toward a better future. That's the message I hope people take away from this milestone."
Marina Bradley, an honors student from Montana, points to America's cultural influence as another reason for celebration.
"Throughout its 250 years, America has established itself as a major cultural force and has produced influential films, music, and creative movements," she says.
Bradley believes younger Americans should recognize both the opportunities and freedoms available to them.
"It's easy for young people to view patriotism as something old-fashioned," she says, "but it's important to remember that there are still many freedoms and opportunities available here."
Columbia student Bryce Kruljac, a Pennsylvania native who currently works for Columbia College Chicago President Shantay N. Bolton, agrees that the nation's 250th anniversary presents an opportunity for reflection and celebration.
"Rather than focusing exclusively on the traditional story of American independence, this anniversary offers an opportunity to celebrate what America has become: a nation shaped by people from many different backgrounds," he says.
Kruljac believes the semiquincentennial can serve as an opportunity to reflect on the nation's ongoing efforts to expand opportunity and inclusion.
"The event should encourage reflection on how the country continues to pursue its ideals," he says.
He suggests that anniversary messaging acknowledge major milestones in the nation's history, including emancipation, women's suffrage, marriage equality, and the continuing growth of cultural diversity.
"These milestones reflect the ongoing evolution of the American story and the pursuit of the ideals associated with the land of the free," Kruljac says.
Editor's Note: The views expressed by contributors quoted in this article are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of CommPRO. This feature is intended to explore a range of perspectives on America's upcoming 250th anniversary and the messages that resonate with members of Generation Z
