For years Millennials have heard that we're going to be the first generation that's not better off than the previous generation. On the surface I'd argue that's so not true, and that we're much better off--in some ways, at least--than the feudal generations of Europe. But if you compare us with the past 100 generations, I'd have to agree, at least in many respects. Our generation has more acceptance, diversity and equity than previous generations did, after all, and I think Gen Z will only improve that aspect of our lives.
Economically speaking, however, this has always made sense as we have the smallest amount of wealth and the Baby Boomers aren't retiring quickly enough for our generation to move up the ladder--when there's one left. We are the first generation to face credit reports from day one of adulthood, we have the highest rates of student loan debt and a plethora of other problems. So that's always made sense for me.
Now we're seeing increasing numbers of suicides due to the pandemic and U.S. life expectancy rates dropping the first time since WWII. This is not good. This is time for us to demand the changes we need if we're going to better our lives in this nation. Student loan reform, universal healthcare, paid parental leave, the Equality Act and so much more... it's all on the table and we need to make it happen.