2020 has been an unconventional year to say the least, but one thing that we have not been allowed to do is to forget that this is an election year. Although, we have not been bombarded with the usual amount of election advertisements, it has still been a heavy topic of conversation where ever we look. Something that has been discussed plenty of times is the importance of voting.
Voting is the voice of each individual American. In many circumstances, the majority vote or popular vote is the deciding factor for elections. This means that when you vote, you count. You helping to decide the people who will represent you and your beliefs. In the case of the Presidential election, our votes still count. Our votes determine how the Electoral vote will be swayed and determined. This is our chance to select the candidate we feel will best represent our voice and best lead our country. There have been many close Presidential races throughout history where very few votes were the deciding factor of those elections. One vote can make all the difference in local elections as well.
However, to me voting is an even bigger deal as a woman. Women have recently celebrated our 100th year with the right to vote. I feel that as a woman it is my duty to carry on what others tirelessly fought for as early as the Civil War. For instance, activists during President Wilson’s presidency at one point were imprisoned and treated horribly. They were released only when the media caught word of their treatment. Women have not held strong ground in politics for long and I feel that it is my duty to at least voice my opinion through voting even if I may not be voting for a female candidate.
We fought hard for the right to vote. In the early days of our country, only wealthy, white, male landowners had the right to vote. Now in 2020, we all have the right to choose to vote. However, many choose not to vote and to not have their voices heard because they feel as though they are not heard anyway. Your vote is counted. It is there. The candidate you vote for may not win every time, but the fact of the matter is that you shared your opinion. You spoke out. Be one of those people to speak out this year.