Yes We Can

One of the most interesting things about this election year is the surge in activism by the youth--and their role models. My boyfriend and I were watching Larry King on CNN a couple of days ago. The guests? America Ferrera, from "Ugly Betty," Will.i.am, from The Black Eyed Peas, and John Legend, noted R&B singer. Here's a bit of the transcript:

Larry: What got you out this year, America?

America: Well, you know I think I, along with all young voters this year, realize that this is one of the most important elections of our lifetime.

America, a Hillary-supporter, went on to explain that this election year marked the first time she became heavily involved in any election. And she is not alone. Super Tuesday's youth vote statistics were shocking, as reported by VH1:

"According to the results of CNN's exit polls and tabulations from the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, young voters turned out in record numbers in more than 20 states. In practically every state holding a primary or caucus Tuesday, youth turnout increased astronomically, doubling, tripling and even quadrupling the turnout in the 2000 and 2004 electoral seasons."

But back to my point. The CNN clip was about will.i.am and Legend composing a song and music video based on Barack Obama's "Yes We Can" speech. My boyfriend made me watch the song on Youtube. It's pretty riveting. I'm attaching it on the bottom so you can all watch it.

Here's what Will.i.am says at the end of the clip:

Will.i.am: The most powerful people on the planet right now is the youth. And they have to know that and believe that. So that's what that speech did to me. It made me believe again.