Thread by @KSoltisAnderson

This research project is near and dear to my heart: an exploration of where Millennials and Generation Z think their futures are headed, how they define success, and what they think drives access to opportunity.

Report is out today ---> waltonfamilyfoundation.org/about-us/newsr…

Our research involved surveys of over 2000 Millennials + 2000 Gen Zers nationwide plus in-depth qualitative with over a hundred respondents.

How Millennials view themselves: Resilient, persistent, entrepreneurs.

How Gen Zers view themselves: Conscious, innovative, outspoken.

Despite growing up in the shadow of economic collapses, two wars, and now a global pandemic, young Americans still believe that success is within reach.

Seven-in-ten believe if they work hard, they will be able to move up the economic ladder.

Most young Americans define the "American Dream" for themselves as having the opportunity to build the life they want. It isn't one size-fits-all, it's not about a white picket fence.

And for most young Americans, they think THAT dream is within reach.

But it hasn't been an easy ride for Millennials and Generation Z. Despite their optimism, they are very aware of the barriers that stand in the way of opportunity.

Expensive higher education, health care, and more are very big problems for many.

We find 60% of Black Millennials and Gen Zers say that racial inequality is a very or extremely big problem that might keep them from having the opportunity to live the life they want to live.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also presented a roadblock for younger Americans who are just beginning to build their futures. A majority say that COVID-19 has made it harder for them personally to succeed in life.

What are the keys to opportunity and a better life?

Over seven-in-ten Millennials and Gen Zers say: loved ones, public schools, and the environment in their community.

In terms of education, Millennials and Gen Zers want to see schools focus even more on career, life, and critical thinking skills, better preparing them for the challenges they will face in the real world.

Though there is plenty of optimism throughout the research, one area where we find young Americans are very worried that things are getting worse: the environment.

Climate, oceans, and rivers are all areas of serious concern.

Despite the challenges they have faced and will continue to face, Millennials and Gen Z remain optimistic because they believe they have the power and drive to bring about change. Many mentioned this summer's protests as a sign to them that young people are ready to lead.

The biggest takeaway for me is that the American Dream is defined as having opportunity. Millennials and Gen Z are clear about what they think can provide (or block) opportunity. And though they face roadblocks, they feel confident that they can bring about change.

View the full report here:
waltonfamilyfoundation.org/about-us/newsr…

Our findings counter some of what @nytdavidbrooks writes here when he says: "Children can now expect to have a lower quality of life than their parents."

Older Americans think this; Millennials/Gen Z instead say they'll overcome the challenges they face. theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/…

In our study, majorities of Black, Hispanic, and Asian young Americans say they expect to have a better life than their parents have had. And even among white Americans, who are somewhat less likely to think they will be *better* off, only 15% think things will be *worse*.