Intergenerational: Two Perspectives

In the Journey Towards Peace documentary, differences of opinion are clearly divided along generational lines on several issues, such as the relevance of the history of slavery and the importance of affirmative action programs.

Generational differences and conflicts have been around practically since the beginning of time. Throughout history, young and old have clashed over ideas and philosophies. While generational differences can sometimes act as a polarizing force, people all over the country have also found creative ways to use the wisdom of the elders and the vitality of the younger generation to bridge that gap:

• Linking Intergenerational Networks in Communities (LINC) is a five-year program that teams youths and seniors together to solve problems in the communities of South Carolina. LINC aspires to provide youths with mentors and role models, foster intergenerational understanding, and strengthen the community through volunteer projects, through team training on group dynamics, service skills and community awareness. Teens and seniors gain these skills together as they work on the particular need in their communities.
  http://www.strom.clemson.edu/teams/risl/linc/

• Yearbook is an intergenerational play that takes a look at issues that affect both seniors and teens. Race relations, family, substance abuse and peer pressure are some of the issues tackled in this 50-minute play. With a cast of four young people and two seniors, Yearbook has been performed over 40 times in schools, libraries and community centers in the Pittsburgh area.
  http://www.pitt.edu/~gti/arp.htm

• Over 100 volunteers make up the New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra, whose members range from ages 8 to 87 and hail from approximately 33 New Jersey neighborhoods. Believed to be the only one of its kind, the NJIO has performed for NBC, CBS and at the United Nations.
  http://www.bobdevlin.com/njio.html
  
  

While discussing the need for affirmative action the students express strong opinions on the need to continue programs that grant a privilege to one group and not another. Watch this streaming video clip of their discussion and then make up your mind.