As analysts continue to study and parse the results of the 2022 midterm elections, I hope that in the final analysis there will be a consensus that young adults have the kind of civic power to tip the scales in closely contested elections.
Voices from every sector need to be loud and clear in giving younger voters the credit they deserve for their interest and enthusiasm during this cycle of elections. They didn’t just vote. Youth-led organizations worked hard to mobilize their peers because they understand that their future depends on the vote and who is elected.
While many older adults had tunnel vision about inflation, younger voters seem to have been more motivated by a broader range of issues that could be described as rights and values supported by a democratic community. Nothing seems to energize people to act more than the fear od something being taken away.
Much credit is due to those organizations that provide the infrastructure for providing pathways for youth to exhibit high civic engagement. These organizations must be supported with donations in order to sustain and increase the type of youth engagement that we’ve seen in 2022. Following are just a few such national organizations–I encourage you to find your state and local organizations, as well:
Gwen Dungy 
Young people who vote really can make all the difference. Their numbers were critical in the midterms, and you are right; they deserve our appreciation and support.