Idea for Final Activist Project 

There are many issues to be passionate about in America today. As the 2016 presidential election approaches, we are surrounded by politicians speaking about justice, sustainability, economic prosperity, and equality. These candidates use elaborate strategies and rhetoric in order to persuade citizens to give them their vote. However, in order for change to actually occur and for leaders to begin to work towards improvement, citizens must get out and vote. Voter turnout has declined in recent years, especially in representation of millennials and young citizens. Eighty-one millennials will be eligible to vote in the election of 2016. However, only forty-six million are estimated to actually show up to vote.  There are many causes of this problem including voter frustration, a lack of political education, and a feeling that one vote doesn’t make a difference. However, these perceptions are harmful and inaccurate.

People would be shocked to realize how much our government, at both the national and state level, influences the progress and shaping of America. From income inequality to environmental sustainability, the government has a hand in how issues of today’s world are dealt with in America and all across the world. The leader of our democracy has a direct hand in many of the decisions behind the progress or lack thereof that contributes to solving these problems. It is important then, that the president who will be elected on November 8, 2016 is representative of every voice, especially those of young people.

Everyone has an issue that they are passionate about. The great thing about democracy is that you do not have to be a millionaire or an elected official to have a say in what goes on in our country. Everyone has a voice. Everyone has a vote. We cannot make serious progress or positive change in any issue or area before we address the issue of voter turnout. We simply need more millennials to vote and we need to spread the notion that their votes matter. That is the first step in making progress toward any other issue. 

Rachel Ledon