I think it’s pretty safe to say that the majority of the world seems to underestimate the power of teenage girls. The recent political renaissance of Teen Vogue proves that. The magazine’s editorial staff firmly believes that girls and young women can be interested in both fashion and politics.
When Teen Vogue took a stand and began to educate its readership about political events, people seemed shocked. I think that shock and outrage is ridiculous. If people were taken aback by the new political and activist tone of Teen Vogue, then they obviously haven’t been paying attention to content in women’s magazines.
Not only that, but content for children and teens has always been more political than adults would care to believe. My favorite example of this happens to be best illustrated in the Harry Potter series. J.K. Rowling peppered the books with political parallels to current issues and lessons in bravery, kindness and empathy. Teen Vogue is inspiring in its educating their readers who might be shut out of the conversation due to their age.
Last month, Teen Vogue‘s editor, Elaine Welteroth, and digital director, Philip Picardi, appeared on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah. One of my favorite quotes of the night, and one that went viral on social media was Picardi answering a question. Noah asked, “People say, ‘You’re Teen Vogue, you’re known for fashion. What the hell do you guys know about politics anyway?'”
Picardi’s reply blew me away, and I completely agree with him. This kind of journalism and activism from Teen Vogue is something I wish I could have seen as a 15-year-old. He said, “To tell a teenager that she should stick to lip gloss, when she’s being directly impacted by policies affecting her lifestyle and the lifestyle of those around her, is frankly irresponsible.”
News outlets around the world have been taking notice of the teen publication. The Guardian recently published a feature piece about the magazine and its editors. Story after story has been written about how Teen Vogue is leading the resistance and educating their readers.
On March 8, Teen Vogue went dark in honor of the Day Without a¬†Woman. They decided to take part in the day, coinciding with International Women’s Day, to “emphasize the impact women have on the economy, the workforce and all of society through paid and unpaid labor.” They provided a few options and ways to become involved, and then went dark for the day.
I’ve been a longtime reader of the magazine, and I could not be more excited to see more political and social pieces. The pieces, and the authors, are intelligent, thought provoking, and concise. I hope Teen Vogue continues to shine a light on politics and social issues. Girls today need to arm themselves with information and facts more than ever before.
-Sage Daugherty
Junior Girl
Girl Museum Inc.