Overcoming ageism in politics and beyond | GUEST COMMENTARY
Overcoming ageism in politics and beyond | GUEST COMMENTARY Baltimore Sun
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Ageism in U.S. Presidential Politics: A Reflection on the Sustainable Development Goals
Introduction
A recent ABC News/IPSOS poll reveals that 86% of Americans believe that 81-year-old Joe Biden is too old to serve another term as president, while 62% share the same sentiment about 77-year-old Donald Trump. This ongoing debate about the impact of age on the race for U.S. President has brought attention to the issue of ageism in politics.
This article reflects on a letter written by the author’s late father to Walter Mondale in 1984. The letter expressed concern about the Democratic Party’s attempt to make the age of Ronald Reagan, who was 73 at the time, a campaign issue. The author highlights the importance of addressing ageism and its impact on the human rights and values of older individuals.
The Impact of Ageism
Ageism, the discrimination directed towards older individuals, is a prevalent form of prejudice in society. It is perpetuated by negative stereotypes and can manifest in various ways, from derogatory language to biases within the workplace. These beliefs are often based on misconceptions and contribute to the marginalization of older people.
The use of the outdated term “elderly” was surely deliberate, aiming to sustain a certain narrative and generalize older Americans in broad strokes.
Ageism in politics has become even more pervasive and cruel in 2024. Political figures, such as Nikki Haley and Brit Hume, have made ageist remarks about President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. These comments devalue the wisdom and experience that older individuals bring to the table. The use of terms like “elderly” further perpetuates negative stereotypes.
Overcoming Ageism: The Sustainable Development Goals
To address ageism, a collective effort is required to reshape societal attitudes, break down stereotypes, and create environments that value the wisdom acquired through aging. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, particularly Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities. The SDGs aim to promote inclusivity and ensure equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of age.
By resisting the temptation to attribute every misstep or lapse to the effects of old age, the media can play a crucial role in combating ageism. It is essential to focus on individuals’ abilities and contributions rather than their age.
Examples of Age and Wisdom in Leadership
Despite concerns about the age of presidential candidates, history has shown that age can bring wisdom. Benjamin Franklin helped write and sign the Declaration of Independence at age 70. Golda Meir served as Israel’s first prime minister until age 76 after leading the country through the Six-Day War. Nelson Mandela became the first president of a democratic South Africa at age 75.
Conclusion
Addressing ageism in politics is crucial for promoting equality and inclusivity. The ongoing debate about the age of presidential candidates highlights the need to challenge negative stereotypes and value the experiences of older individuals. By embracing the principles of the SDGs, society can work towards reducing inequalities and creating a more inclusive future.
Andy Frank (andy@capexadvisory.com) is principal at Cap Ex Advisory Group and a former Baltimore deputy mayor (2007-2010).
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
The article addresses the issues of ageism and discrimination against older individuals, which are connected to the SDGs mentioned above. SDG 3 focuses on promoting good health and well-being for all ages, while SDG 5 aims to achieve gender equality. Ageism can perpetuate inequalities and hinder the achievement of these goals. Additionally, SDG 10 aims to reduce inequalities within and among countries, including age-related discrimination. Lastly, SDG 16 promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions, which includes addressing discrimination and promoting equal rights for all individuals.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including access to quality essential healthcare services, and access to safe, effective, quality, and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all.
- SDG 5.1: End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere.
- SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age.
- SDG 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels.
Based on the article’s content, the targets mentioned above are relevant to addressing the issues of ageism and discrimination against older individuals. Achieving universal health coverage (SDG 3.8) ensures that older individuals have access to quality healthcare services. Ending all forms of discrimination against women and girls (SDG 5.1) includes addressing age-related discrimination against older women. Empowering and promoting the inclusion of all individuals, irrespective of age (SDG 10.2), aims to reduce ageism and promote equal rights for older individuals. Lastly, ensuring inclusive and representative decision-making (SDG 16.7) helps address age-related discrimination in political processes.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 3.8: Proportion of the population with access to quality healthcare services, including essential medicines and vaccines.
- Indicator for SDG 5.1: Proportion of women and girls who have experienced discrimination based on age.
- Indicator for SDG 10.2: Proportion of older individuals who report experiencing age-related discrimination in various settings (e.g., workplace, healthcare, public services).
- Indicator for SDG 16.7: Proportion of older individuals involved in decision-making processes at various levels (e.g., government, community organizations).
The article does not explicitly mention specific indicators, but these indicators can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These indicators focus on measuring access to healthcare services, experiences of discrimination based on age, prevalence of age-related discrimination, and participation of older individuals in decision-making processes.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including access to quality essential healthcare services, and access to safe, effective, quality, and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all. | Indicator: Proportion of the population with access to quality healthcare services, including essential medicines and vaccines. |
| SDG 5: Gender Equality | Target 5.1: End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere. | Indicator: Proportion of women and girls who have experienced discrimination based on age. |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age. | Indicator: Proportion of older individuals who report experiencing age-related discrimination in various settings (e.g., workplace, healthcare, public services). |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels. | Indicator: Proportion of older individuals involved in decision-making processes at various levels (e.g., government, community organizations). |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: baltimoresun.com
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