Gen Z Women Shift From Religious Affiliation to Political Activism

In her book, The Politics of Gen Z: How the Youngest Voices Will Shape Our Democracy, political scientist and Author, Melissa Deckman reveals that Generation Z (born late 1990s to early 2010s) is challenging long-held beliefs about gender, religion, and political engagement.

Historically, women have been more religious than men; however, current data reveals a significant increase in nonreligious young women compared to their male counterparts—39% versus 31%. This trend correlates with progressive values among these individuals regarding LGBTQ rights and abortion access. Deckman notes that many Gen Z women perceive organized religion as unaligned or hostile toward their ideals.

And unlike previous generations where church attendance correlated positively with political activity for both genders, Gen Z women's involvement decreases when they remain affiliated with religious institutions. Ultimately, this demographic demonstrates greater liberalism on various social issues while actively participating in politics at higher rates than males within the same age group.

Gen Z women are dropping out of religion, but ramping up in politics

(RNS) — Here’s a switch: Young women are less likely to be religious, and young men are less likely to be politically active.

RNSJana Riess