It’s a fair question. And, it is a very timely one. My answer will be a direct one, no begging this question.
It is a matter of empowerment, as well as collective power. Empowerment means giving individuals the tools needed to have a positive affect in society. Empowerment can also be cumulative. When one individual feels certain about their knowledge, abilities or actions their behavior spills over and influences others. Voting will empower you, and have a cumulative affect on all of the people around you. But just deciding to register to vote involves some education and analysis. I teach, so I’m all in favor of you educating yourself before taking action.
First, begin following the 2008 campaigns at the national, state and local levels. While the presidential campaigns may capture your interest, you may have more direct political power at the local level. More than any previous generation, you can educate yourself about political campaigns using online social media or traditional media. And, most importantly, you can be part of what is being called the first presidential election that features citizen-generated content. Voter registrations are becoming the best attended events—complete with music— on many college campuses. Why? Because in this election, young voters care and are actively participating. Let your passion about events and problems in society guide you. If you care very deeply about the War in Iraq, saving the environment, making college more affordable, or reforming immigration you can easily find out where the candidates stand on these issues and comment on their web sites or You Tube. And, you can discuss it with your friends. Millions of 18-24 year olds have already voted in the 2008 election and they have made a difference in the outcome and momentum of various campaigns. They can be proud of their role in shaping this election. And, when they vote in November they will be helping shape the future of the nation. When votes become a collective, they can be very powerful.
While the Pennsylvania primary isn’t until April 22, our voters could still play a significant role in determining who the presidential nominees will be. Consider the fact that there are over 1 million state residents in the 18-24 age bracket. Do you realize how much power over 1 million voters could have in the primary?
Sometimes I am asked if one vote matters. The greatest impact of voting may be at the local levels. In the mid-1990’s I had the privilege of serving on the Luzerne County’s Election Board. If you don’t think that one vote matters, consider that we had to toss a coin to settle several local elections—one for the City’s school board. That is a fairly common scenario across the country—a single vote determining the outcome of an election. Direct decision-making at the local level or representative decision-making in a presidential election—democracy only works when you vote.
I know that you have strong, very perceptive opinions on a lot of issues. And, I know you speak up. If you do not vote you will have no voice in the national conversation about who should govern, no voice to advocate for change, no voice to question and probe policy, and no voice to complain when things do not go the way you think they should. Here is your chance to bring your distinctive voice to the 2008 election. Join with millions of other young voters and send a really clear message about how this nation should be governed.
One final thought. Does it concern you that in only 15 years your generation will be leading this nation? Empower yourself. Get ready to lead and vote.
Dr. Jane Elmes-Crahall
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
It is a matter of empowerment, as well as collective power. Empowerment means giving individuals the tools needed to have a positive affect in society. Empowerment can also be cumulative. When one individual feels certain about their knowledge, abilities or actions their behavior spills over and influences others. Voting will empower you, and have a cumulative affect on all of the people around you. But just deciding to register to vote involves some education and analysis. I teach, so I’m all in favor of you educating yourself before taking action.
First, begin following the 2008 campaigns at the national, state and local levels. While the presidential campaigns may capture your interest, you may have more direct political power at the local level. More than any previous generation, you can educate yourself about political campaigns using online social media or traditional media. And, most importantly, you can be part of what is being called the first presidential election that features citizen-generated content. Voter registrations are becoming the best attended events—complete with music— on many college campuses. Why? Because in this election, young voters care and are actively participating. Let your passion about events and problems in society guide you. If you care very deeply about the War in Iraq, saving the environment, making college more affordable, or reforming immigration you can easily find out where the candidates stand on these issues and comment on their web sites or You Tube. And, you can discuss it with your friends. Millions of 18-24 year olds have already voted in the 2008 election and they have made a difference in the outcome and momentum of various campaigns. They can be proud of their role in shaping this election. And, when they vote in November they will be helping shape the future of the nation. When votes become a collective, they can be very powerful.
While the Pennsylvania primary isn’t until April 22, our voters could still play a significant role in determining who the presidential nominees will be. Consider the fact that there are over 1 million state residents in the 18-24 age bracket. Do you realize how much power over 1 million voters could have in the primary?
Sometimes I am asked if one vote matters. The greatest impact of voting may be at the local levels. In the mid-1990’s I had the privilege of serving on the Luzerne County’s Election Board. If you don’t think that one vote matters, consider that we had to toss a coin to settle several local elections—one for the City’s school board. That is a fairly common scenario across the country—a single vote determining the outcome of an election. Direct decision-making at the local level or representative decision-making in a presidential election—democracy only works when you vote.
I know that you have strong, very perceptive opinions on a lot of issues. And, I know you speak up. If you do not vote you will have no voice in the national conversation about who should govern, no voice to advocate for change, no voice to question and probe policy, and no voice to complain when things do not go the way you think they should. Here is your chance to bring your distinctive voice to the 2008 election. Join with millions of other young voters and send a really clear message about how this nation should be governed.
One final thought. Does it concern you that in only 15 years your generation will be leading this nation? Empower yourself. Get ready to lead and vote.
Dr. Jane Elmes-Crahall
Wilkes University
Communication Studies
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