Disclaimer: Mail-in voting will no longer be happening at the time of publication.
The ability to vote is a right and privilege that should not be taken for granted. It’s your civic duty to do your part and go out and vote. This election is like no other that has ever been seen before, and is probably the most important in U.S. history. Given the current state of the world, going out and voting is crucial. We are living in a country that is achingly divided, and regardless of the results of this election, we will see a lot of things start to change.
As someone who comes from a country where a fair election isn’t a reality, I know the importance that a single vote holds. For once I have a voice, and I used it because I finally can. Many believe that their single vote holds no power but that is so far from the truth, especially in a swing state like Florida. EVERY. SINGLE. VOTE. COUNTS!
This is the first time I get to vote, because I just became a United States citizen this year. At 21 years of age I finally get to participate in democracy in the place I have lived most of my life, and as a Latina woman, I take this responsibility very seriously. I voted early in my county and it was an experience I will never forget. Getting to hold a ballot for the very first time and knowing that I have made a difference gave me a sense of nationalism I haven’t felt in a very long time. I filled out my ballot after reading and getting to know each candidate and amendment I was voting for. I’ve done my research and elected the candidate whose ideas and morals align with my own. It’s instrumental that you do your own research and understand what each candidate stands for, as well as what that means for you and the future of this country.
I never saw myself as someone who was invested in politics, but in this day and age, how could you not be? Personally, my home country is not the same place I loved and dreamed of when I was younger. The truth of the matter is, I probably won’t be able to return until there is a change in presidency, due to safety concerns. Until there is a change and a fair election can happen, I won’t be able to go back and see my family. Coming from a place like that, it is impossible for me to sit back and not do my part now that I live in a place where democracy is practiced. For once, I have a say in who will run the country I live in. I know what it’s like to have that right taken away from you. I know what it’s like to feels as if your vote wouldn’t make a difference, because in Venezuela, it really wouldn’t. However, I am thankful that now my voice does matter. Even as just a girl in her 20s living in Miami, I know that I made a difference. I know that regardless of the results come November 4th, I did everything I could, and that’s really all we can do.
There’s absolutely no excuse for anyone who is eligible to skip on voting, especially in this election. You can vote by mail through your absentee ballot, you can drop off your ballot at a local voting center, or you can go in person and fill it out there. No matter which method you decide on, make sure you have a plan, make sure you’re informed, and let your voice be heard!