You can say the generation divides in the year 1997, 1998, 1999, or maybe even 2000.
However, the line between Millennials and Generation Z (Gen Z) is not as clear cut as we think. Everyone calls themselves a millennial if they are in college.
Yet, there is a distinct difference between Millennials and Gen Z. Both can currently be seen in college.
Millennials and Gen Z have been a hot topic due to articles describing the generations as lazy, entitled, and self-loathing.
You may have heard the term “Gen Z” used in conversations about the new age of kids doing crazy challenges, from the cinnamon challenge to the tide pod challenge.
Typically, when describing the generations, we ask ourselves “Where do I fall? When is the cutoff date?”
This myth of a cutoff date is what strikes superiority in the older generations and gives them the excuse to say, “Back in my day, we did not do such crazy things!”. This only stigmatizes the subject of young- er generations and reduces relatability in people themselves.
And this is not a new statement. Baby Boomers and Generation X love to speak about their nostalgic memories as being better than younger generations such as Millennials and Gen Z.
Let me clear things up; there is no cutoff date. There is no magical year that makes you a millennial or a part of Gen Z. And even the term “Millennial” refers to the up and coming generation of the new millenia (the 2000s).
However it can be unclear as to which “year” is the cut-off date.
Sure, there is a typical cutoff date useful for psychologists and the media to conduct studies. Such generalizations help conduct research on generational differences.
However, there is no consistent date. You can say, “If you were born in January of 1998, you are part of Gen Z.”
Saying this however, creates a negative dialogue when the date is used with phrases such as, “The new generation is so idiotic, ungrateful, and unmotivated.”
It is the trends of innovation and technology that separate a generation.
To elaborate, millennials grew up in a time when the internet was new and exciting. They would chat on AOL chat rooms and activate Facebook accounts for the first time.
They grew up with Beanie Babies and the only tablet they had was an Etch A Sketch. They watched Friends and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air late at night. They knew the 90s well, and perhaps still miss it.
Gen Z, on the other hand, grew up in a time of growing technology.
They could video chat people from all around the world, did not have to worry about how much each text message cost (thanks unlimited plans), and never grew up having to hit a number key three times on a phone to text one letter.
They grew up with emoji keyboards and downloadable apps. Most of them did not wear apple bottom jeans and boots with the fur.
Rather, popular brands like Abercrombie and Fitch and Hollister took to the stage.
My point is, you cannot say one year cuts off a generation.
When you talk to someone older or younger than you, there are some differences.
However, there are also similarities. Everyone has the want and need for happiness, respect, and love.
If you look around the Saint Xavier campus, you’ll notice people of all ages and generations.
Instead of pretending like you are better or cooler than them, talk to them. Start a dialogue.
Be the generation, whatever that generation may be, that cares for people and their rights. Do not let the myth of a cutoff date for generations make you feel superior.
Instead, get to know a younger or older person and imagine what life is like in their eyes.
Emily Rubino
Opinions Editor
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