Teens experience ageism too | Amelia Conway | TEDxManhattanBeach
Amelia Conway’s TEDx talk titled “Teens Experience Ageism, Too” highlights the issue of ageism faced by teenagers in our society. She begins by sharing her personal experience of being underestimated and devalued as a director because of her age.
Conway emphasizes that ageism is not just a problem faced by older people; it affects teenagers as well. Conway points out that society tends to view teenagers as less intelligent, less capable, and less responsible than adults, which can lead to feelings of isolation. She argues that ageism affects teenagers in several ways, including limiting their opportunities, undermining their confidence, and creating barriers to their success. She suggests that by acknowledging and challenging ageism, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society for young people. Conway urges us to challenge our own biases and assumptions about teenagers and to support young people in achieving their full potential. She emphasizes that age should never be a barrier to success and that we must work to create a world where everyone, regardless of their age, is valued and respected.
In Amelia’s TEDx Talk, Teens Experience Ageism, Too, she shares her story about her passion for directing and exploring that passion at the age of 11. She states that “defining expectations about what people should and shouldn’t be doing at certain ages in life is not only limiting to the individual, but it is limiting to society.” Do you agree or disagree with this statement? What are some things that you do, or would like to do, in your classroom to challenge biases or assumptions about teenagers and/or younger children so they can reach their full potential?
Amelia Conway discusses intersectionality between age and gender. She shared that this intersectionality impacted her sense of belonging in school. As an educator, what can you do to foster inclusive spaces for your students in ways that empower their voice, creativity, and diversity of thought?