“Gen Z has been a lot less stuck in some of these identity differences… and my hope is that that openness remains with this generation and gets carried forward.”
That’s Paul Haridakis, Director of Communication Studies at Kent State.
He doesn’t believe polarization is worse than in the past—it’s just more visible now, amplified by identity-based coverage and digital platforms.
Looking back at Kent State’s own history of student protest and division, he sees the parallels.
“Identities have just changed some, that’s all. We have to strive for common identities.”
As alumni, we know our campus histories. We’ve seen what conflict and conviction can look like. The future may be uncertain—but if Gen Z holds on to that openness, there’s real reason to be hopeful.
Hopeful—and vigilant.
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