Conservatism has fallen out of favor with many millennials. The younger generation is increasingly left-leaning. This is not very surprising to me, as many conservative organizations and politicians have much room for improvement in regards to connecting with younger voters.

I may be in the minority among people my age, but I still see the values of conservative thought. Many recent events, such as UC Irvine’s suspension of the College Republicans, have shown that conservatives are being repeatedly demonized by the regressive left. Although I have no issue with most liberals, there is a certain radical segment that wants our voice silenced. In light of these events, I feel that it is appropriate to fight back by writing about what conservatism means to me.

I believe conservatism is about responsibility and self-ownership. It is a message of empowerment, one that embraces the power of the common man to better himself. Rather than embracing victimhood and learned helplessness, a conservative believes in his ability to take control of his life. Instead of making its citizens dependent on entitlements, we believe that governments should promote the growth of opportunity through capitalism, a vehicle that has enabled so many of today’s great innovations. As the late Ronald Reagan said, “The greatest social program is a job.”

Complementing responsibility is freedom.The government should not be an entity that tells people how they should live. Nor should it take the fruits of the industrious worker, and attempt to inefficiently redistribute in the name of equality. Rather, its role should be to protect the property, lives, and freedom of its citizens. It is not the job of the people to serve the government, but rather job of the government to serve the people. Additionally, we believe freedom of speech should apply to everyone equally, even to those you disagree with. No longer should the voice of the silent majority be drowned out by the vocal minority.

Lastly, I believe conservatism is about patriotism, and a love of your country. This entails a gratitude and appreciation for the principles in which America was founded upon. That is why we cling by the enduring virtues of life, liberty, and happiness that the architects of this nation preached.

Some believe that conservatives are opposed to change. That is not entirely true. In fact, a capitalistic society encourages innovation, which leads to prosperity and progress. However, change for change’s sake is not the answer. At the heart of conservatism is a steadfast commitment to the values that made America great.

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