My 2024 Word of the Year is CHERISH. As another very important election occurs next month, I am reminded of how precious the right to vote is to my gender and my race. It's hard to even fathom that there was a time when neither women or African Americans were allowed to vote in the United States of America. It feels so archaic and demeaning to even type those words.
Voting is one of the most critical responsibilities of citizenship in any democratic society. While it may seem like just another civic duty, it’s much more than that—it’s a vital tool for shaping the future of communities, countries, and even the world. Yet, in the United States and many other nations, voter turnout is often lower than expected, especially in non-presidential elections. Registering to vote and participating in every election—local, state, or national—matters more than ever.
A few years ago, I started the social media hashtag #VoteEveryElection with the goal of using my platform to encourage others to voice their votes at the polls. I'm still amazed at how many of my connections commented with insecurity and negativity about voting in America, expressing concerns that their votes may not be counted.
Here are five reasons you should ensure you are registered to vote and actually make it to the polls to cast your ballot during every election.
1. Your Voice Matters, No Matter the Election
Every election, whether for a local city council or a national leader, shapes the policies and systems that affect your daily life. It’s easy to believe that one vote doesn’t count, especially in large elections, but history shows us otherwise. Consider the 2000 U.S. Presidential election, where George W. Bush won the state of Florida—and thus the presidency—by a margin of only 537 votes. This is just one example of how every vote can have a significant impact on the direction of a country.
Additionally, local elections, which typically have much lower turnout, are where citizens can make the most direct difference. School boards, city councils, and mayors make decisions about education, infrastructure, housing, and public safety that affect communities more immediately than federal policies. For example, decisions made by local officials about police reform or school funding have a direct and immediate effect on residents. When citizens abstain from voting, they leave these critical decisions to a smaller, less representative segment of the population .
2. Protecting Your Interests
Elections give voters the power to select representatives who align with their values and priorities. Whether the issue is healthcare, climate change, education, or social justice, voting is a way to ensure decision-makers reflect the needs and desires of the community. Policies passed by elected officials can have long-lasting consequences, and failing to participate means allowing others to dictate those policies.
Voting is also a way to protect marginalized communities. Historically, groups who have been disenfranchised have fought for the right to vote. For example, the U.S. Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s worked to dismantle legal and structural barriers that prevented African Americans from voting. Despite this progress, many voter suppression tactics still exist, making it even more important for citizens to actively participate in elections to safeguard their rights and the rights of others .
3. Civic Engagement and Accountability
Registering to vote and participating in elections fosters a more engaged and informed citizenry. The act of voting requires individuals to research candidates, understand ballot measures, and reflect on their values and the future they want to see. A healthy democracy thrives on civic engagement, where citizens not only cast votes but also hold elected officials accountable. When voter turnout is high, it forces politicians to be more responsive to the needs of the people, as they recognize their positions are not guaranteed. REMEMBER: It's WE The People who hire and fire politicians!
In contrast, low voter turnout allows politicians to cater to a smaller, often wealthier or more powerful segment of society, which can perpetuate inequalities in representation - "the haves and the have-nots". In a representative democracy, every vote acts as a check on government power. By exercising this right, voters ensure elected officials remain accountable and the democratic process remains healthy .
4. Voting as a Civic Responsibility
Voting is more than just a right—it’s a responsibility. Citizens who are eligible to vote have a moral obligation to engage in the process. Not voting is a missed opportunity to contribute to the direction of society. In a way, every vote is a statement of who you are and what you believe in. The policies that result from elections shape future opportunities, justice, and equity for all. When more citizens vote, the results better reflect the will of the population.
For younger generations, in particular, voting is an opportunity to influence the future. While older voters historically turn out in greater numbers, young people are often the ones most affected by decisions on issues such as climate change, education reform, and job creation. By registering and voting, young people can have a more direct say in how these issues are addressed and advocate for a future that aligns with their values .
5. Combatting Apathy and Disinformation
In recent years, apathy toward politics has risen, driven in part by disillusionment with the political system and the spread of misinformation. However, disengaging from the political process only allows those who perpetuate such disinformation to gain more power. Instead, voting is one of the most effective ways to counter disinformation and ensure legitimate voices are heard. By participating in elections, citizens send a clear message that they are paying attention and will not allow disinformation to erode democratic processes .
By encouraging friends, family, and colleagues to vote, individuals can combat apathy and foster a more active, informed electorate. Every vote cast is a statement of belief in the power of democracy and a rejection of efforts to suppress or manipulate voters.
Be a part of the solution! Registering to vote and participating in every election is one of the most powerful ways to enact change. By voting, individuals ensure their voices are heard, their interests are represented, and democracy continues to function for the benefit of all. Whether the election is national, state, or local, every vote counts, and every election matters. It’s not just about choosing leaders; it’s about shaping the future.
So, if you haven’t already, register to vote. And when the time comes, make sure you show up to the polls or mail in your ballot. Democracy depends on it, and so does the future.
Please join me in CHERISHing and honoring our right to vote!
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