Oct. 9, 2012 - Have You Registered To Vote Yet? Why Not?
by Consuelo Martinez
Have you registered to
vote yet? Why not?
For many Americans, politics is not
something they like to think or talk about. Voting may be high on the
list of things the average person in the US is not excited about. The
reality is, most eligible Americans do not vote. For youth and people
of color, that percentage is less than the average. Disappointing? I
hope you think so.
In 2012, many nonprofits and community
groups are working hard to register people to vote. Especially in
communities with many young folk and people of color. At the same
time, more than 30 states have passed Voter Identification (ID) Laws
that make it more difficult for people to vote. These VOTER ID laws
have been a trend among some U.S. states that began in 2006. While
some may claim that it is to prevent voter fraud that has not been
proven to be a valid issue. More to come on this issue in a later
blog post.
As a Latina in my early 30s, I was the
first in my family to register and vote. I was excited to do so when
I turned 18. Luckily, my family has later followed in my footsteps
and now votes in every election. We have made it a family affair. On
a Sunday evening, we bring our ballot guide books and discuss the
propositions to learn about what’s on the ballot. For those who
don’t see themselves doing such a thing, there are many
organizations, whether nonpartisan or partisan, that you can go to
for further research and insight. When I am stuck on deciding on a
proposition, I will visit the websites of trusted organizations to
get their point of view. It’s so helpful!
I’d like to leave you with something
to think about before the November 6th election. Remember
that not all citizens have been allowed to vote in the history of
this country. That right was something that others before us fought
for. I vote for my future, and to honor those who fought for my
right to vote. Your voice is your vote. You can’t complain
if you have the right to vote, but don’t. I hope that you will
vote.
NOTE: You must be
a U.S. citizen and at least 18 years of age by the November 6, 2012
election to vote. Register before your state’s deadline.
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