Life can be busy—exams, errands, work, etc. We get it. However, here are just 5 (of MANY) reasons you should make time to go to the polls this upcoming Tuesday!
1. People died for you to have this right
The Revolutionary War may seem like just a blurb in a history textbook but remember those that died to have representation in government were individuals—people with hopes and dreams, people who had families and friends that they loved. They sacrificed it all to ensure a better future for the generations to come. You are part of their legacy—don’t squander it.
2. People are still risking their lives to vote today
To give a single example, citizens of Afghanistan bravely went to the polls to vote, in a brave affront to the Taliban militants that threatened voters, stating they intended to attack voting centers. Officials said that there were more than 120 hand grenades or improvised explosive attacks that attempted to deter voting, but that did not stop 4 million people from showing up to the polls.
3. Women in the US had to fight for this right
Women in the United States have fought a long, uphill battle to have voice. It wasn’t until 1919, with the 19th amendment that women in the United States obtained their right to vote. Almost 100 years ago, there are still women alive today that saw a time when women did not have a voice in government. Today, we have women in Congress and the Supreme Court, and the oval office is within reach! We have the women of prior generations to thank for how far women’s rights have come. Do you know the best way to thank them? VOTE!!!
4. Women in many countries are still denied this right
While most countries have women technically allowed to vote, they still face extreme obstacles. For example, in Pakistan, women can be forbidden from voting by their husbands or village elders and women who vote are often met with harassment and violence. Pakistan is just one of many countries where women face strong societal pressure against voting that prevents many women from having a voice, as well as endangering the women who do vote.
5. You can have a voice, but only if you continue to use it
“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men [and women] to do nothing.”
Our constitution granted us the right to vote to enable our endeavor to become a “more perfect union,” so instead of merely complaining about the direction our country is heading, do something about it! Be the good you want to see in the world. Get off your butt, vote, and encourage your friends and family to do the same!