Education

Nat’l Bus Tour To Energize Young Voters Makes Stop In Va. Beach

The Tour To Save Democracy, led by Generation Z activists, stopped in Virginia Beach to inspire young voters on issues like gun control, reproductive rights, and climate change ahead of the 2024 election.
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VIRGINIA BEACH

A bus load of nationally recognized Generation Z activists stopped in Virginia Beach on Tuesday August 6 as part of the Tour To Save Democracy.

The nationwide tour is an unprecedented action led and organized by Generation Z activists focused on swing districts. The goal is to drive change forward on issues such as gun control, reproductive rights, healthcare, and climate change. They also hope to inspire young people to vote and actively participate in the democratic process leading up to the 2024 election.

The stop locally featured several speakers highlighting important local and national issues, information booths, and voter registration.

“Our reason for embarking on this journey is simple: Our generation has to deal with the detrimental impact of the climate crisis, daily mass shootings, and a national abortion ban, all while our democracy is on life support,” said Sam Schwartz, Founder & Executive Director of Tour To Save Democracy. “More than anything, we want progress on solving these issues.”

Sarah Fishkind, Director of Operations for Tour To Save Democracy, added, “Our generation has hidden under our desks and run for our lives. We’ve lost friends, family, and rights, but we have not lost hope.

“This summer, we’re bringing together a community of young voters and inspiring them to create a Congress that puts people first, by passing significant gun safety, abortion rights, and climate bills.”

Another tour leader, Emma Levine, Creative Director of Tour To Save Democracy, explained, “As young people, our activism is born out of the inaction of the past, yet rooted in the present. The only thing we stand to gain is a better future, and our only agenda is to pass laws and save lives.”

In all, the group plans to visit at least 15 locations in 10 states to connect with young voters in local communities.

Several Gen-Z politicians were invited to speak to include Congressional Candidate Missy Cotter Smasal and Virginia House Delegate Alex Askew.