The recent Fort Worth anti-abortion protest held by the International Coalition of Abolitionist Societies near the central crosswalk of University Drive has triggered multiple conversations within the TCU community.

Protesters certainly have the right to express their beliefs by the way of the First Amendment, as long as they uphold the laws and are not on private property. Usually demonstrations as such stem from controversial topics.

Last semester, “Black Lives Matter” protestors staged a “die-in” near the Frog Fountain; conveying their disagreement with the police brutality against unarmed black men.

(VIDEO: Student pursues dream of IndyCar racing)

The culture of protesting certainly varies between violent and peaceful. Outcomes of protests can lead to people being injured, arrested and damaged communities, but they also can generate empathy, solutions and the possibility of fewer conflicts moving forward.

There should be more encouragement for ethical protests on behalf of millennials as our generation is known for taking stands through social media rather than physically standing up for a belief.

As citizens of America — let alone the world, it is vital for young people to begin to form their own opinions about worldly issues. Having to experience or witness diverse views on social problems allows for growth by constructing beliefs on the information at hand and the opportunity to implement real change.

Relatively speaking, many TCU students live comfortable lifestyles away from home. This is the time to venture out and gain insight on exactly who one is as an individual and to form authentic opinions as young adults and upcoming professionals.

Projects Editor Bria Bell for the editorial board.