With political tensions rising, how do you navigate this in your community while staying civil? Often, adolescents will have different views politically, and it can be hard to have tough conversations and stay respectful.  Regardless, these conversations need to be had, especially among the rising youth.

Ava Norman, a Senior at Wheeling Park High School, says how she navigates political disagreements in her relationships. 

“I navigate political disagreements by not allowing them to define how I see people and the relationships I have with them. People often subconsciously create stereotypes of others based on views and that is why our communities can be as toxic as they are,” says Norman. “It is important to know that sometimes people can differ from you and still be a good person.”

It is important to recognize that everyone around you will have very different views and that is completely okay. 

“Of course everyone will not share the same views as me such as my close friends. It is almost impossible to find someone who aligns with everything you believe in,” says Norman, “My very best friend has completely opposite perspectives on political issues compared to mine and that is fine. We just simply don’t talk about it.” 

Along with this we turned to Wheeling Park’s very own Civics teacher, Ryan Stanton, for his opinion.

“I think it’s best to keep an open mind and understand that people will have different opinions, and that’s ok. Just be respectful and listen. Not everyone comes from the same background,” says Stanton. 

Stanton also comments on how he observes political conversations in his classroom and how he believes they can push students towards adulthood in preparation for life. 

“I think it’s very beneficial for teenagers to have political conversations and learn about different perspectives. Many students are still trying to figure out where they stand politically and conversations can be a big help. It can also help them see the other side, even if they don’t agree. Learning how others view something and understanding that shows a lot of growth,” says Stanton, “I’ve seen many of these conversations throughout the years in my class, and I take a lot of pride in modeling to my students how to participate in political discourse in a civil way.”

In conclusion, no matter what the person beside you believes, it is important to remain gracious to their opinions and views, despite your own. 

“Respect is the keyword to focus on when having tough conversations,” says Stanton.