The Co Lab attended an event today at the Center for American Progress looking at the millennial generation’s shifting conventional wisdom on political engagement. Taken from the flyer:  While young people are more skeptical of institutions and less likely to identify with political parties, they are also more progressive then previous generations. What does this reality mean for political organizing as we know it? How do U.S. Millennials compare with their peers around the world? And how will they shape politics and policy in the decades to come?  Generation Progress, in partnership with Foundation for European Progressive Studies and AudienceNet, recently commissioned a groundbreaking new study called the Millennial Dialogue Project. This research on cultural norms, political engagement, and social change has now been conducted in over a dozen countries and will be presented by leading experts.  What resonated with us?  A few take away quotes from presenters:

“strength in commonality is the most exciting outcome in our conversations with young people globally.”

quote from Germany “the internet is gaining in popularity on mobile phones and recently even wrist watches but unfortunately instead of being used to inform young people, we are playing with senseless apps”

“Don’t mistake apathy towards the political system and politicians with lack of caring about public affairs”

“89% of 15-35 year olds (Millennials) in USA say they are happy”

“Millennials say that parents are the biggest influencers in their lives, not their peers.”

“Desire for authenticity everywhere, including politics.”

“Millennials want to do, not talk”

“Engage around your passions, similarities and stories instead of around being liberal or conservative, democrat or republican”