Gen Z Latinas are taking over the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Here’s what you need to know about Olivia Julianna, who’s representing Texas’ youth.
Olivia Julianna is proof that your social media platform can take you places. Not only is the queer Mexican-American activist and political strategist a strong Gen Z influence online, but she’s also using her voice to engage others at this year’s Democratic National Convention (DNC) on Wednesday, August 21.
“I’m so incredibly humbled and honored to announce that I will be a speaker at this year’s Democratic National Convention,” Julianna wrote on her social media. “Texas – I hope I make you proud.”
For those who don’t know, the 2024 DNC – where Kamala Harris and Tim Walz will be recognized and celebrated as the official Democratic nominees for President and Vice President of the United States – is taking place in Chicago, IL, from Aug. 19 to Aug. 22.
To get a clearer sense of who Julianna is, here are some facts about the young activist who was invited to represent Gen Z Texans at the DNC.
Who is Olivia Julianna?
The 21-year-old Texan is an activist for climate change and abortion access. She currently has over 682.2 thousand followers on TikTok and over 79.5 thousand followers on Instagram, demonstrating her massive following across social media platforms.
She became known for her activism in 2022 when she raised millions for abortion funds after Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) fat-shamed women during a speech against abortion. He later singled her out in a heated social media exchange, which ultimately led her to raise over $2 million in donations for abortion funds in the U.S. How’s that for turning ugly remarks into a good cause?
Currently, she’s a political strategist with Gen Z for Change, a nonprofit that leverages the power of social media, content creators, and code to drive tangible progressive change on the ground.
What’s she speaking about?
According to the New York Times, Julianna’s speech theme is “freedom.” She told the media outlet: “Peer-to-peer organizing is one of the most powerful tools we have in our democracy. For years I’ve spoken directly to my fellow young Americans through my social media pages, knocking on doors for Democratic candidates, and rallying for fundamental freedoms across the country.”
To catch Julianna’s speech and more, tune into CBS. For more information on programming times and how to watch, visit CBS News’ official website.
