Today is a significant day as we celebrate Governor Tim Walz’s announcement as Kamala Harris’s running mate in the upcoming election. This news brings hope and excitement, reminding us of the unity and joy that politics can inspire. But as we move forward, it’s crucial to reflect on the norms that have historically guided our civic and political lives—norms that have faded in recent years but are essential to our democracy.

The Importance of Norms in Childhood and Civic Education

Norms aren’t just for adults; they’re foundational to how we teach our children about citizenship. For many of us in Generation X, these norms were instilled in us from a young age. We learned about government and civics in school, and those lessons were reinforced by the examples we saw in the world around us. There was a strong emphasis on understanding how our government works, the importance of voting, and the role of respectful debate in a healthy democracy.

As we came of age in the 1980s and 1990s, these norms shaped our political experiences. We saw the importance of compromise during events like the passing of the 1986 Tax Reform Act, where bipartisan cooperation between President Reagan and Democratic leaders led to significant changes in the tax code. We also witnessed the power of respectful discourse during the 1992 presidential election. Ross Perot’s independent candidacy brought new issues to the forefront without devolving into personal attacks that have become more common today.

Another defining moment for GenX was President Ronald Reagan’s famous challenge to Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev in 1987: “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” This statement wasn’t just about foreign policy; it symbolized the power of American ideals and the belief in the triumph of democracy over oppression.

Our political upbringing was marked by a belief in the institutions of democracy, a trust in the electoral process, and an understanding that, while we might disagree, the goal was always to find common ground and move forward together. As we reflect on these norms and their impact on our democracy, it becomes clear that we need to recommit to them. By doing so, we can restore the trust in our institutions and the spirit of cooperation that once defined our political landscape.

Comparing GenX to GenZ: What’s Changed?

GenZ has seen political discourse shift from debate to diatribe. Social media has amplified every disagreement, turning what were once differences of opinion into deep divides. Platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook have changed the landscape of political communication, where the speed and reach of information—whether accurate or not—can instantly influence public opinion. This constant barrage of information has made it harder to distinguish fact from fiction and has often led to a more polarized society.

Instead of the bipartisan cooperation seen in the 1980s, GenZ witnessed the government shutdowns of the 2010s, where political gridlock led to real consequences for millions of Americans. They’ve also seen the rise of “alternative facts” and a media environment often prioritizing sensationalism over substance.

American Norms in Civics and Politics (1980-Present)

Bipartisanship and Compromise:

• The 1986 Tax Reform Act, a significant bipartisan effort between President Ronald Reagan and Democratic leaders like Tip O’Neill, demonstrated how leaders could work across party lines to achieve meaningful legislation.
• The 1996 Welfare Reform Act under President Bill Clinton, which saw significant bipartisan cooperation, underscored the importance of negotiation and compromise in passing major reforms.

Respectful Political Discourse:

• The 1984 Presidential Debates between Ronald Reagan and Walter Mondale. Despite sharp differences, the debates were marked by civility and focused on policy rather than personal attacks. Reagan’s famous line, “I will not make age an issue of this campaign,” was a humorous deflection that maintained respect.
• The debates over the Affordable Care Act in 2009-2010, where, despite fierce opposition, numerous instances occurred when lawmakers emphasized the need for respectful debate and focused on the policy’s merits. This period highlighted the challenges and importance of maintaining respectful discourse even in contentious times.

Peaceful Transfer of Power:

• The 2000 Presidential Election between George W. Bush and Al Gore. Despite the contentious Supreme Court decision, Al Gore’s concession speech emphasized respecting the democratic process and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power, which he described as a hallmark of American democracy.
• The peaceful transfer of power in 2008, when President George W. Bush handed over the presidency to Barack Obama, was marked by cooperation and respect, showcasing the stability and resilience of American democracy.

Community and Civic Engagement:

• The rise of grassroots movements in the 1990s, such as those focused on environmental protection and public health, showcased the power of community engagement in shaping public policy.
• The post-9/11 era saw a surge in civic engagement and national unity, with Americans coming together in community service and support for first responders.

Reaching for the Stars:

• The Space Race, particularly the 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing, symbolized America’s ambition to push beyond boundaries and achieve the seemingly impossible. This spirit continued with the Space Shuttle program, which began in 1981 and symbolized American innovation and leadership in space exploration.
• The Camp David Accords in 1978, where President Jimmy Carter brokered a historic peace agreement between Egypt and Israel, exemplified America’s role as a global peacemaker.
• The ongoing push for innovation in technology and medicine, from the development of the internet to breakthroughs in cancer treatment, shows that the American drive to go beyond continues to thrive.

Reviving Our Great American Ideals

As we reflect on Walz’s selection as Harris’s running mate, let’s also remember that the strength of our nation lies in our ability to unite despite differences. We don’t have to agree on everything, but we can agree on maintaining democratic norms that allow us to disagree with dignity. These norms have made America a beacon of hope and a model of democracy for the world. They remind us that democracy isn’t about unanimity but finding common ground and moving forward together.

As we approach the election, let’s recommit ourselves to these ideals. Let’s be proud of our civic engagement, and let’s remember that our disagreements can lead to progress when handled with respect and a shared commitment to democracy.

To-Do List

1. Stay Informed: Stay current with political norms and how they shape our democracy. Accurate information can be obtained from reliable sources, such as government websites, reputable news outlets, and historical documents.
2. Engage in Respectful Discourse: When discussing political issues, strive for civility and focus on the policy’s merits rather than personal attacks. Engage in conversations that promote understanding and compromise.
3. Participate in the Electoral Process: Ensure your voter registration is current and accurate. Plan for how and when you will vote in upcoming elections.
4. Support Civic Engagement: Consider volunteering with local organizations that promote civic engagement or participating in community events that foster dialogue and cooperation.
5. Reflect on American Ideals: Take time to reflect on the values that define our democracy, such as the peaceful transfer of power, bipartisan cooperation, and the drive to push beyond boundaries. Think about how you can embody these ideals in your daily life.