Many individuals of eligible voting age opt not to vote for various reasons.
Perhaps they are too busy, undecided, discouraged by their choices, perceive the electoral system as corrupt, or feel their vote will not have an impact.
While these reasons may have validity, they should not preclude us from being motivated to exercise our right to vote.
The saying “Every vote counts!” is familiar, but what should we do if we doubt its truth?
Challenge yourself to take a wider perspective on the matter. Instead of questioning the purpose of voting in this election, consider how you would feel about abstaining from voting in all elections.
By erasing your vote, you erase your voice; this is, in essence, voluntary suppression.
“Not voting is not a protest. It is a surrender.” — Keith Ellison
History has shown us that there has been more than enough suppression, and we would be wise not to invite it to return.
For example, Black men were not allowed to vote until the passing of the 15th Amendment, which was approved by Congress on February 26, 1869, and ratified on February 3, 1870.
Even then, exercising that right proved difficult due to intimidation and discriminatory tactics, including violence.
Women were not allowed to have a voice in elections until the 19th Amendment, passed by Congress on June 4, 1919, and ratified on August 18, 1920.
Only a small number of the early advocates for women’s suffrage who fought for the right to vote were alive to witness the ultimate triumph.
Still, decades of resistance would follow before minority women were able to vote due to discriminatory state voting laws, and this wouldn’t be rectified until the passage of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965. Furthermore, only in 1982 did Congress add Section 208 in the VRA, ensuring that individuals with disabilities requiring voter assistance were protected.
Yet, many people choose to live in ignorance, forget, or, worse, be indifferent to the voices spoken in the past so that we are not silenced today.
“Someone struggled for your right to vote. Use it.” — Susan B. Anthony
The approaching presidential election may not interest you, but by opting out of participating in the voting process, regardless of whether it is a fallible system, you are deciding not only to silence your voice and viewpoint in your country but also to disrespect those who have gone before to bear the struggle for both the right to vote and the freedom to reside in a democratic nation.
Additionally, low participation often results in a small number of voters deciding crucial matters, giving each vote even greater statistical significance. By choosing not to cast your vote because you think it won’t make a difference, know that abstaining from voting ensures that a smaller majority will represent your interests and concerns.
On Election Day in America, November 5, 2024, you will have the freedom to choose to vote as well as the freedom to vote for whomever you decide.
Please make use of this freedom rather than finding reasons not to.
“Voting is the expression of our commitment to ourselves, one another, this country, and this world.” — Sharon Salzberg