Seema Khaneja MD
Updated on: October 15, 2024 9:54 am GMT
The vibrant world of high school theater has the power to shape lives and inspire change, as two prominent figures recently highlighted during a spirited conversation. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Broadway star Anthony Ramos shared their journeys through education and the arts, discussing how tools like theater and the influential musical “Hamilton” can drive civic engagement, especially among young voters.
Influence of Teachers in Theater
Ramos, who rose to fame through his roles in “Hamilton” and “In the Heights,” spoke fondly about a teacher who played a pivotal role in his life. Reflecting on his high school experience, he recounted a moment of hardship when he nearly gave up on his aspirations. “That was a turning point in my life,” said Ramos. “She helped me with the audition material, she paid the $50 for the application, and she sat with me and wrote the essays because I wanted to quit.”
Teachers often play a crucial role in guiding students, especially those who may lack confidence or face challenges in their academic journeys. Ramos’s anecdote underscores the importance of supportive educators, who can empower students to discover their potential, regardless of their grades or prior interest in the arts.
Theater as a Gateway to Voter Engagement
During their conversation, Walz and Ramos discussed how theater programs can inspire young people to become more involved in their communities, particularly through voting. Ramos shared that his experience in “Hamilton” profoundly shifted his perspective on politics. “Voting was not a thing I cared about at all,” he admitted. “But we’re singing about revolution… You think about those words. ‘I am not throwing away my shot’ — what is that shot?”
Walz pointed out that many young people feel detached from politics, believing their voices don’t matter. He remarked, “I’m sure a lot of people say this, ‘Look, I’m just not that into politics,’ and I respond, ‘Too bad. Politics is into you.'” This connection between the arts and civic participation can motivate students to engage with the political process in meaningful ways.
Ramos Addresses Trump and Kamala Harris
At a rally in Pennsylvania, Ramos made headlines not just for his theatrical roots but also for his political stance. He publicly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, razzing former President Donald Trump’s policies. “It’s not like we’re living in a world like we don’t know what we gonna get,” he declared, emphasizing the importance of making informed decisions.
While recalling Trump’s time in office, he described it as “terrible” and “horrible.” The crowd resonated with his sentiments, chanting, “We’re not going back.” Ramos encouraged everyone to recognize the power of voting, saying, “It’s such a blessing. [It’s] so powerful when you come together in this way.”
A Message of Unity
Ramos’s speech focused heavily on unity, emphasizing that diverse groups of people stand together at rallies and in the voting booths. “This is the feeling we want to hold on to,” he said, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and collective action in shaping America’s future.
He also reminded the audience that the act of voting pulls together people from various backgrounds and races, reinforcing the essence of democracy. “You all see how united we feel,” he told the cheering crowd, urging them to preserve that sentiment through their choices at the polls.
Arts, Education, and the Future
Both Walz and Ramos stressed the intertwining of arts in education and its broader implications for society. They believe that not only do theater programs enrich personal development, but they also cultivate informed citizens who can enact change in their communities. The impact of this art goes beyond entertainment; it encourages young individuals to embrace their role in shaping democracy.
Education officials and advocates have long noted the relationship between participation in the arts and community engagement. Programs that prioritize theater and the arts often see enhanced student performance, higher graduation rates, and increased civic involvement among graduates.
Looking Ahead
As the conversation between Walz and Ramos continues to resonate, their message is clear: the arts have a unique way of transforming lives. They can serve as a catalyst for social change and political engagement, particularly among youth who may initially feel disconnected from civic responsibilities.
This partnership between education and the arts holds promise for the future. With influential figures backing the call for enhanced theater programs, there is hope that more young people will find their voices and feel empowered to participate in the larger democratic process.
In a world where every voice matters, the encouragement and guidance of teachers can pave the way for students to understand the power of their choices, both in the realms of arts and politics. Ramos exemplifies this as he urges young people to not only engage with the arts but also to harness that inspiration to effect change in their communities.
As the new campaign gets started, Ramos and Walz remind us how important it is to mix creativity with helping our community. For many young Americans, this could be the chance they’ve been hoping for.
