Edit your essay and be sure that it is good. The veterans from the VFW post take this very seriously and really enjoy listening to what young people have to say about the United States of America. Make sure you are respectful of them. Perhaps you might consider doing some research about the VFW to learn more about your audience.
On Monday, you will turn in a
1. paper copy of the essay with your name on it. Use proper MLA format
2. a disc or a zip drive marked with your name
3. permission slip
DO NOT SAY YOUR NAME ON THE RECORDING!!!!!!!!!!!!! It will be disqualified.
Why My Vote Matters
ReplyDeleteThe nineteenth amendment granted women the right to vote in 1929, officially freeing them from political slavery. Since then, the United States has shown signs of a true democracy. Each civilian has the equal opportunity to voice their political opinion throughout each election. Although voting is a right to Americans, it is also a responsibility, allowing each person to be heard. Every four years there is a presidential election in which the American family comes together to elect the absolute leader that will represent us as a whole. For hundreds of years, each generation has gathered to elect a leader, now it is our generations task to step up and commit to our duty as Americans.
The responsibility to vote, however, is not an easy task for everyone. Each individual must first understand what they believe. Should abortion be legal? Should we have the right to bear arms? Democracy gives us the option to voice our opinion on these controversial topics.
Civilians have to realize what each candidate thinks about certain issues and what they will react too first. Everyone must evaluate each candidate and make the best choice for our country. Which candidate will be dedicated to his country, his words, and each crisis we face? Each American vote matters because as a whole, we are one together.
Throughout the years of high school, we have looked forward to becoming eighteen. Not only because it represents eighteen years of life, but because it is an opportunity to become an adult. It is a time in which we must grow up and understand politics. Who do we want leading our country? How do we want to explain our generation to our children years from now? My vote matters because as a human I have opinions and I have personal beliefs. My country allows me to vote for what I desire most. I have the right to say abortion in wrong and I have the right to vote for the ability to bear arms. America is one, together, and must vote to create the best country possible.
The national anthem is our song as an American. We go to athletic games and sing it loudly, however, how many people know the true meaning? As children we memorized the words because our parents make us, but as we grow up we begin to understand. As many have heard before, the thing that sets the Americans apart from everyone else is our men will die on their feet before giving up on their knees. The warriors shot at the rampart constantly and they hit the flag many times. The men were praying for the flag to stay up. The soldiers held it up until they died. The patriots bodies held the slanted flag high in the air. This is why we are Americans and this is what made us the country that we are now. We must carry on the tradition and vote for a leader for the upcoming generations. It is our responsibility to come together to vote for the best candidates. My vote matters because I am an American who would die for what is right before giving up on my country. I will vote for what I believe in and I will vote for whom I think is best. We must vote in order to represent the home of the brave.
Emily, nice blog. I enjoyed the callback to the 19th Amendment, and feel that it fits well with the theme. However, you do say that at eighteen teens must understand politics, when the exact opposite is happening. Teens are becoming more involved in politics ex) march for our lives. I do wish you spoke about how teens are politically active today.
DeleteVery well done. I am glad you included the Nation Anthem. And we should have the right to bear arms. It's not a question, it is a constitutional right.
DeleteI like how you mentioned that in order for America to be one, its citizens must come together as one. People often look past voting and don’t consider it much of a “right” anymore. You expressed your thoughts extremely well.
DeleteWhy My Vote Matters
ReplyDeleteMy vote doesn’t matter. I’m not even old enough to vote yet. Why would my single vote make a difference in a sea of so many? These statements can’t be further from the truth. If everyone thought this way, where would our country be?
Close your eyes and imagine for a moment that you are standing on the crowded streets of downtown Pittsburgh. It is windy, cold, there is the constant sound of cars honking, and people are chattering with one another as they hurry by. You are standing on a street corner outside of a depressing building with dark brown brick, distinguishable from the others on the street only by the small sign in the window that reads- Planned Parenthood. You watch frightened mother after frightened mother enter the building, each person entering increases your nausea. You raise your eyes up to the windows of the operation rooms towering above you and pray that somehow the hearts of the desperate mothers are changed from the irreversible decision they are about to make. Outside of the clinic, many of the people who push past you utter rude phrases that sting your heart, and tell you to “go to hell.” Others smile, thank you, and say “God bless you.” You are wearing a sign around your neck that reads- “Pray to End Abortion”
Standing on that horrible street corner, I found the reason why my vote matters. My vote gives a voice to the voiceless. My vote vocalizes the silent cry of the unborn. My vote holds immense, unrealized power.
It’s the American people that collectively change laws. As an American citizen, I have the power to speak for those who are unable, especially the unborn. The unborn are not given a voice, a vote, or even a say in their very lives. Many are not even considered to be a human life because they are not yet born. With my vote, I have to power to change this. I am forever grateful that someone had the courage to fight for my right to vote, and I can return the favor by using that vote to fight for someone else’s right to life, and consequently, their own right to vote.
My vote matters because I can do more than just say I’m pro-life. I can begin to truly act on this by using my vote to support political figures who are also pro-life. I can help to usher in a leader of the country who will put an end to abortion. My vote can help to change the abortion laws for the better. The unborn are the future of our world, but they don’t have the chance to be the future if they aren’t granted the chance for life.
My vote is important. Even though it’s one vote in many, it has the power to literally change lives. My vote isn’t insignificant. Among many other things, It gives a voice to the unborn who don’t have a voice to defend themselves with. My vote could save babies who could one day save lives too. My vote matters
Sophie, excellent post and certainly very moving and personal. However, I do wish that you had branched out and talked about other topics. Again, you did a great job and it certainly means a lot to you, so it’s your call to change it.
DeleteThis is an excellent blog. I like how you share your own experience of when you realized that your vote matters.
DeleteI’m intrigued by your emphasis on abortion and how you had a personal experience with people at Planned Parenthood. Your blog was also very well-written and easy to follow.
DeleteYour personal view on why your vote matters showed great imagery and really represented your passion for voting. Good work, Sophie!
Delete
ReplyDeleteWhen I was a little girl, I remember my father telling me “If you don’t vote, you can’t complain.” Right there and then, I decided to vote, because, being the child that I was, I wanted to complain about things. It wasn’t until I was much older that I truly understood what my father was trying to tell me; He was trying to tell me that my vote truly does give me a voice in the way our country is run, and that if one chooses to abstain from voting, they lost that voice. He was trying to implant in me the importance of voting, and becoming an active citizen of our great nation. Though sometimes it may be difficult to see, our votes truly do matter, because they allow us to have our say in the future of America.
It saddened me when I hear that people choose not to vote, because it shows that they have a lack of faith in our democracy. When we cast a vote, we make known the direction we want this country to take. We chose the people, who make incredibly difficult decisions that impact the country, across all races and nationalities. These leaders are given the difficult task of trying to make our homeland the best that it can be, therefore it is vital to chose the right people for the job. The vote ensures that the people are able to make that decision.
We Americans are blessed and fortunate that we are able to chose who we wish to vote for, something that should not be taken lightly. In many countries, the citizens are not free to chose who they personally think is the best candidate to run their government. Thankfully, our forefathers put in place a system that gives us the right to vote, and our troops have defended this right many times. They paid the ultimate price so that we could have the freedoms that are so dear to us today. That alone should be an indication of how much the vote really does matter. We are given a precious opportunity to speak our minds, and yet so many of us do not take advantage of it. By casting a vote, I am showing to the world that our troops died for a worthy cause, I am showing to the world that true freedom and democracy is possible, that is why it matters.
Voting also gives people the right to express their beliefs and shape the world for future generations. The issues that America’s vote on in this coming election will shape countless of lives in future generations to come. Hundreds of years from now, schoolchildren will be studying the effects of the issues that Americans today cast their votes on. The course of history is being decided right now, and the vote allows us to choose its path.
Though I originally resolved to vote for the childish reason of being allowed to complain, I know understand how vital voting is to our civic life. Voting allows us to chose the people who lead us, show the world our freedoms, and chart the course of history. My vote matters for all those reasons. Although I am young, I have been gifted my right to vote by those who cane before me, and I intend to use it.
Julie, I thought you did an amazing job with your blog this week. The first couple sentence were hilarious. I like how specific you were but did not bring up specific things that you would vote for. Normally I would say that it would be better to give an example that you vote for. However, I feel that you did a good job without it.
DeleteJulie, you had some very good points. I enjoyed the read.
DeleteAs I was reading your blog, I couldn't help but laugh at your opening sentences. I agree with Grace on not showing examples on which you would vote for because this topic is focused on why your vote matters, not what you would vote for. Nice job!
DeleteI enjoyed how you gave a personal story with this. It makes the whole thing more relatable and enjoyable.
DeleteWhy My Vote Matters
ReplyDelete“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave,” stated Director of the United States Office of War Information during World War II, Elmer Davis (“Elmer Davis Quotes” 1). Even though I am not of legal age to vote, I still believe my voice matters. However, when I am of legal age to vote, I will be using my vote on the candidate that will best represents the five non-negotiables of the Catholic Church. Four out of the five non-negotiable are geared toward life issues. I will be voting pro-life once I have the chance. The two that I uphold are the issue of stem cell research and abortion. I believe in the sanctity of all lives.
I will be using my vote to protect the lives of those who cannot speak up for themselves, just like many people have done for me. I hope my vote will help encourage the next generation to stand up for the unborn. If we keep aborting our children then we will not have a future generation to vote, protect, or even run our future nation. Even though I believe that women’s rights are important, no one person’s life is any more important than someone else’s. Abortion should not be considered a women’s right. Stem cell research is also a disturbing reality that is allowed within our country. Abortion is just murder and should never be tolerated within our country.
As previously mentioned, I believe that women should have just as many rights as everyone else. I also think that the right to bear arms is crucial to our country. It may not be one of our amendments that we use that much in today’s world. However, many people use guns for game and to provide for and protect their families.
It troubles me to hear that people throw away their vote because they do not think that any candidate will do their job in our country. It makes me truly upset to hear that more people in America watched the Super Bowl than vote for our future president (Schlager 1). I feel people do not look to better the next generations. People in America are just doing anything they can to make America “good enough” for themselves. So many men and women gave their lives to give us the option to vote and to allow us to keep voting. We can not just throw away our vote, we must grow our nation and use our vote for the bettering of our country, America. As the next generation to vote, I am going to use my vote to make America the best it can for the future generations. By voting, we can ensure that our country will remain the land of the free and the home of the brave.
You’re research on this topic really made this essay stand out. The fact that more people in America watched the Super Bowl than voted is shocking!
DeleteWhy My Vote Matters
ReplyDeleteAll it takes to change the world is one person, and that one person could be a voter. For centuries people of all races, ages, and genders have fought for their right to vote. Even today, some people are still unable to vote because of the laws that governments have established. Because many people’s ideas and opinions are still not heard, my vote matters. I can be the voice of all who cannot speak their opinion.
Up until the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, women were not allowed to vote. For the first 150 years of the United States of America, the supposed land of the free, women were not allowed to vote. For 150 years, women fought for suffrage in America. For 150 years, millions of voices were not heard in debates and their ideas were ignored. Still, to this day civilians of a protectorate are fighting for their own suffrage. This is why every vote counts. My vote counts because there are people in this world that have no say in an argument, that are ignored and kept in the dark; and I have the power to present their ideas and opinions through my vote.
The age restriction for voting is being of 18 years old. This means that millions, possible billion, teenagers under the age of 18 cannot be heard. Their ideas are overlooked and regarded as reckless or impossible. Young people are the future of this country, not the 50 year old politicians who argue about what is fake news and what isn’t. It is only appropriate that their opinions should be shared. The youth need to be heard and the only way is if we listen to them. They might not be able to vote yet but that doesn’t mean we should ignore them. We must listen to their ideas and use our power to vote in order to showcase their beliefs. My vote matters because I am the future of this country.
My vote matters. It may seem minuscule, but it only takes my vote to change the world. I could change the abortion laws, the gun laws, alcohol laws, or voting laws. I will steer this nation towards greatness by voting, will you?
I like how you point out that people under the age of 18 are not heard. You make many good points. The post definitely makes me think that my vote does matter.
DeleteI feel as if in your second paragraph that you repeated 150 years too many times, but otherwise the paragraph was fine. The third paragraph is very argumentative in that being that through psychological studies, as a child transitions into adolescence, they begin to form a messiah complex, which is rather egocentric and a natural process. Through all of that, they mature based upon their individual experiences, so those who are 30, 40, even 50 years older than we are have obviously matured differently than we have. Neither our ideas nor theirs are naive, they just have matured differently, and sometimes we must recognize there are situations that one law might benefit myself, but ends up being detrimental to society as a whole. Otherwise, I enjoyed reading your post on why you believe your vote matters.
DeleteThis is a very valid concept. Good job!
DeleteThe repetition of “for 150 years” brings attention to your points, which is well done. Before you wrote this, I never really thought of my vote being the voice of others as well as myself. Nice job!
DeleteOnce upon a time, a king was hosting a weeding feast for his daughter. In exchange for an invitation to the banquet each guest was asked to bring a bottle of wine. A guest was upset with the wealthy king making him bring wine to the princesses’ wedding. The guest was upset that he had to supply the wine and came up with the idea of filling an old wine bottle with water, as one bottle of water, when added to the others, would surely not make a difference. The king filled a glass and began to make a toast toward his daughter and her new husband. As the king finished the toast, and he raised his glass to began take a drink of the community wine, it is at this point that the quest’s secret is exposed; every guest had thought similarly and the king tasted pure water.
ReplyDeleteThe United States heads into an important time of the year, a time in which newly elected government officials are being voted into office, it is up to each citizen of legal age to do their civic duty. These members of the United States can not act like the guests at the king’s part, hoping that others would make up for their shortcomings. As the guests learned, one small bottle of wine made the difference in the celebration, and one opting not to be involved in the privilege of voting changes the balance of an election.
Many citizens decide not vote because they are unfamiliar with the candidates and do not want to vote wrongly. Along with a citizens civic duty to vote is also their civic duty to become familiar with the candidates. This can be learning some of the main debate topics, which include abortion, gun rights, and taxes. The information about a candidate can be found in many forms. One of these ways can be through a fellow voter. The voter has decided who they will be voting for and knows the candidates beliefs and why they will be voting for the candidate. This one voter has created the ripple affect. One pebble thrown into a pond makes makes many ripples like the one voter who has persuaded his neighbors and friends to vote similarly. The person’s one vote has now become multiple votes.
United States citizens have fought for the right to vote since the founding of the country, especially women and minority groups, and are now throwing this privilege away. The founding fathers when writing the constitution of The United States acted similarly to the king, wanting all the citizens to be involved in the process of democracy. Every vote counts, whether it be for a local mayor, which may only be a couple hundred votes, or a national election for a president or representative, which involve millions of votes. The candidates have realized the importance of each vote, as they spend millions of dollars during their campaign. The candidates have realized the importance of each vote, and know the voter must do the same. Do not due as the guest of the king’s party did, and think that their action will go unnoticed. Go out, make a difference and vote
I liked how you put in a little story to introduce the topic. I never would have thought of that.
DeleteI really enjoyed how you started out with the story of the wedding feast. It really sets the tone for the rest of you essay on why it is so important that all of the citizens of the US need to vote. Great job!
DeleteGreat touch with the story Jocob. You had the idea of putting this in yesterday when we talked and the way you executed it was amazing. It shows the importance of why every persons vote counts.
DeleteWith the upcoming local elections, there has been a lot of talk about voting, and why those who are able to participate should vote. Although I, myself am not eighteen years old and unable to vote, the opportunity is something that I personally look forward to, in being able to put those into political power who I feel would be the best for my city, state, and country. Elected officials each have their own individual views of how they he or she will represent his or her constituents. A teenager or young person who takes advantage of this special opportunity that only happens every so often is missing out on an opportunity that may predict and be your future.
ReplyDeleteTypically, a teenager is very opinionated and strong minded toward many topics, and politics may very well be one of them. Before voting, one should definitely be aware of all goals that a candidate has. Reading about the particular wants of a candidate is almost necessary before going to the polls to cast a vote. This helps one keep up on current events and be aware of what to look for in a future election and be able to make the right decision for them. A teenager also loves to be in charge of a multitude of things. Voting is another one to add to the list, as you are in charge of what you like and what you do not like in a person, and be able to voice your own opinion. My vote also matters because I am the person who is going to shape my future. Throughout life, there are going to be many people and things that have influence on the way we do different acts. Letting those things make you vote one way or another is basically another person vote for you. Earning that right to vote should be so special to us, as the Founding Fathers of our country laid the foundation for the great country we live in today. Women also earned the right to vote through a hard fought protest against only allowing men to vote. Women were granted their suffrage, and all women should vote in honor of the women who fought for that right.
Having the right to vote is not only something that we should be proud to have, but to use it rightfully so. I will vote for those who I believe in and I feel will do the best for my country. My vote matters because I am living in a place where men and women fought for our freedom, and we need to be able to honor those by voting for what be believe in, like they fought for what they believed in.
I enjoyed reading about your thoughts on voting. I liked how you mentioned the fathers of our country. Well done !
DeleteI agree that teens are predict the future with their votes. And I enjoy that you mentioned that everyone should do a little background research before they go vote.
DeleteWhy My Vote Matters
ReplyDeleteVoting is the essence of America. It is not some small part of our democratic republic; it is what makes America what it is. Voting is not a number either. Voting is how every individual affects their country.
While I cannot vote because of my age, I still can see the importance of every vote. The recent election is a great example of what happens when someone doesn’t vote. Plenty of Clinton supporters were interviewed and many of them were angry the Clinton lost, but many also said they didn’t vote. If even half of these people voted, Mrs. Clinton would have won. Nevertheless, Trump won and now it should be self-evident to these individuals how important their vote is.
This principle also applies to everyday life topics. Even if it is as simple as voting when the class pizza party is, if you disagree with a group or decision, it is imperative to make known your opinion. This is exactly why the constitution is in existence. For 116 days, our founding fathers labored over this document, perfecting it. But every day, these individuals voiced their opinions and while they may not have been implemented directly, they helped mold the document as a whole.
There is something deeper at work here. Even if the founding fathers did not agree wholly with each other, there sharing opinions helped bring them together and even helped unite the nation as a whole. I believe this is the true function of voting. It is not about winning or losing, it is about bring together the population and push our society forward.I don’t believe people recognize this anymore because they are too caught up in the tribalistic attitude inherent to the “party” system. This is the reason why George Washington warned against this system. It does not benefit or bring together, it polarizes individuals, making it harder to make sound decisions.
Voting is a system unrivaled in its robustness and flexibility, but when people divide themselves unnecessarily, it completely negates the use of voting. It becomes who can outnumber who, a mindset that can only destroy. This is why the essence of voting is so important to me. It is more important than life to share my opinion, to make my voice heard above the screeches of the fringe groups. Voting is not a divider, it is a uniter.
Bruce, I feel like you did a great job. You pulled in many facts like the last presidential election and so on. However, I feel like you could have elaborated more on why YOUR vote matters. Again, I feel like you did a great job. I liked how you also tied in what George Washington predicted about picking a political party.
DeleteI'm glad that you established that the current system is tribalistic and polarizing, I don't think that most people our age would recognize it, but hopefully they begin to think about how they treat others that don't align with their political opinion. I feel as if society as a whole isn't just divided because opinions, but rather hate and fear of one another and that these issues can only be resolved through conversation and understanding, which seemingly is becoming less and less prevalent in society with social justice warriors screeching their opinions at those who oppose their ideas rather than talking. The only way to peacefully resolve issues is through your voice, the essence of democracy.
DeleteBruce, love your essay. I love about the founding of our nation and how simple a vote can big, but also how big it can be. Also loved the part about George Washington, as I've heard this statement before. Nice job
DeleteWhy My Vote Matters
ReplyDelete“Voting is the expression of our commitment to ourselves, one another, this country and this world,” stated American author Sharon Salzberg. The right of voting is nothing to take lightly, and I personally take pride partaking in the decision making process in the single greatest country this world has ever known. Because the constitutional right of voting determines the future of the United States of America, it should not only be considered a crucial aspect of citizenship, but should be valued, practiced, and celebrated by all.
Voting is an inalienable right of mine, and I will be sure to practice it to its fullest extent because I know the blood, tears, and pain that so many underwent to allow me to write on that cherished ballot paper. Men and women throughout our nation’s history have invested their lives’ work to ensure each and every individual possesses the basic right of voting. This was the work of Fredrick Douglass who prevailed over ridicule, beatings, and slavery to protest the importance of suffrage for people of every race, color, and sex. This was the work of Martin Luther King Jr. who perpetually overcame adversity to bring equal voting rights to African Americans who were denied suffrage through poll taxes and literacy tests. This was the work of Susan B. Anthony who tirelessly campaigned women’s rights and was arrested for voting in 1872 before the ratification of the 19th amendment, which guaranteed women the right to vote. My vote is meaningful because of the efforts of those who never surrendered until voting rights were granted to every citizen.
Each and every vote counts. Picking a candidate for presidency, the Senate, the House of Representatives, or even a local government position is important. Because it is my decision, my vote voices my opinion regarding how I would prefer the government to be run. The future of the country is in my hands, and it is my job to ensure that I take advantage of the opportunities presented to me.
The fundamental right to vote is principal to the foundation of our great nation. It should be cherished by every citizen, for it is our right guaranteed to us through the stars and stripes on our glorious red, white, and blue flag. My vote matters because of the immense value it holds in our representative democracy, and I can use it to make my mark in history.
I like how you included your patriotism into this essay. This is a great point to include as our pride for our country should give us the desire to vote!
DeleteWhy My Vote Matters
ReplyDeleteThe power of the people is undeniably powerful. My voice may seem small and unimportant, but I promise you it could change the world. My vote is just as important as the next person’s. I can voice my personal opinion, change the circumstance of millennial voting, change my future, and change the future of the United States.
Voting is one of the most important rights that Americans were ever granted. Voting allows people to express their own personal preference of who they want their elected officials to be. Americans are tremendously lucky to be able to make their opinions heard through the power of voting. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and should be able to use it to put their say into the political world.
My vote matters because I am part of one of the most influential groups of voters in the country. Youth voters have the power to be an extremely strong political force, considering we make up approximately half of all voters in the United States. Baby boomers make up the other half of the voting population. Not long from now, millennials will outnumber the amount of baby boomers in regards of the the voting polls. Of course, not all people that are able to vote will actually vote, which is extremely unfortunate considering young people would not be using their chance to have a say in things that are important to them.
I certainly want to be able to use my vote to influence issues that could affect me for many years, such as tuition reform or gun reform for safer schools and Churches. It is widely known that older Americans are far more likely to vote than millennials nowadays. If more baby boomers are voting than us, our opportunities to influence any political decisions will be minimized. They no longer have to face the outrageously high cost of tuition, or sit in a classroom terrified for their life as an armed intruder tries to break down the door. Baby boomers are voting on the issues that directly affect millennials, not them nearly as much.
My vote could be the deciding factor in any election. In the 2016 Presidential Election, most millennials claimed to have voted for Hillary Clinton. Although most millennial voters did vote for her, it did not matter because not enough young people that could vote, did vote. If all registered voters actually voted, imagine how different our country would be today. Even consider the past. Imagine how many laws could have been passed that would directly help young people. Imagine how many corrupt officials could have been prevented from being put into office. Imagine how many self-centered presidents would not have been elected. This is exactly why I want to be able to use my vote, to use my voice, to change this country, and change the world.
I am sure you have heard at least one person at some point say something along the lines of, “My vote doesn’t even matter anyways,” or “It’s just one vote, I won’t make a difference.” I believe one vote has the power to make a tremendous difference. Imagine how different the polls would be if people did not actually believe this. Every vote counts. Every vote matters. My vote matters.
Well done! I loved reading about how powerful voting is and I liked how you mentioned voices can be small and quite but can do so much.
DeleteFollowing the 2016 presidential election, the expansion of the idea that an individual’s vote has no effect on the outcome of any election has grown because Hillary Clinton would have won the election if it had not been based upon the electoral college. Thus making those who favor Clinton feel as if their voice, as the people, was no longer being heard. This created a naive and self centered narrative that has nearly destroyed the central idea of democracy in America by discouraging voters to vote in the presidential elections and the midterms held at the state level, making their voices no longer being heard.
ReplyDeleteSince the establishment of America, there has always been a struggle for power, right to an opinion, and other liberties that are central to the American moral and character. From men during the American Revolution, to African Americans after slavery was abolished, all the way to women during the suffragist movement stood up for their liberties, and by doing so, sacrificing their character and lives for what they believed is truly moral and just, by voicing their opinion and fighting for justice. Modern Americans strive to have a similar mindset, but are blinded by the narrative that they hold no power that they did not realize the solution was right under their nose, making their voices be heard by exercising their right to vote.
The turnouts for elections have been drastically decreasing, which has caused the American character centered upon democracy to lose meaning. Parents are no longer teaching the importance and privilege of voicing their opinion by casting a vote, and by doing so ignoring the privileges afforded by the Constitution. Generations are being affected, they are losing motivation, good work ethic, and even perpetuate the idea that a democracy is not the central piece of the government because they feel that they have no impact on the world. Because of this they are not being properly represented during elections due to the lack of voters, which has lead to those who do vote complaining that their opinions are not being listened to, but yet their peers still refuse to vote based upon the idea that their vote holds no power because they fear that their voice will also be ignored by officials, an ignorant and selfish decision affecting those who have voted and tried to start change.
Referendums and petitions are recognized by the government because the government recognizes not all opinions are directly heard or addressed by elected officials, they provide the public with the ability to voice their opinion because they know that the citizens hold power in their voice. Citizens can make a direct change through these referendums, so everyone should cast their vote when referendums are being called into question. Voters and their votes during midterms and presidential elections hold power as well because their votes elect the officials that allow their opinions to be heard by like-minded government officials.
If it’s time for change; if your voice isn’t being heard; if you feel that the system is failing the people; if you feel the need to complain about the election, then register to vote and exercise the privilege it is to vote. That is why I will be registering to vote when I turn eighteen because I want change, I want to guarantee a safer and cleaner world for my children and their children to come and so should you. So I stand here calling for change, I stand here to ask that you register to vote to improve this world, because just my vote doesn’t matter, and just your vote doesn’t matter, but our votes together matter. They matter because we are American, we are the guide for other non democratic nations, and we will change the world one vote at a time.
Martin Luther King once said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” This quote impacts my thought on why it is important for me and others to vote. Unfortunately, in 2016 only 60 percent of eligible voters voted. The other 40 percent could have completely changed the outcome of the election. We must all vote because as soon as people begin not voting, we could no longer have a say in what happens to our society leading to changes in everyone’s lives. As a citizen of the United States, it is my duty to vote to better the society I live. Additionally, to have a leader who wishes the best upon the country and myself, by living up to what I believe in. Voting is not required but, it is suggested as a citizen of the United States.
ReplyDeleteIt is part of our freedom to have the right to vote for leaders who run our country. Other countries do not all have the right to vote for the people they want to see lead their country. England is ran as a monarchy. The leaders of England are selected through the order of succession. This simply means ruling of the country is passed down through families inheritance. However, in the United States we are given the right to elect a new president every four years. This allows my vote to matter because I get to help choose who will live up to my beliefs and make choices based off of them. As a citizen, my religious beliefs are something that plays a big role in who I want to lead my country. For example, President Donald Trump was against abortion. Yet, Hillary Clinton was for abortion. This immediately changes who I want in office. Our president now is fighting to stop abortion with the rest of us. Voting for what I believe in is very important to me. Therefore, everyone must continue voting, or we could lose this option.
Voting to me is not just a duty I should fill, it’s an honorable act that I will perform. As I become part of the United States military, I had to take an oath. In that oath, I stated that I will “..support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same..”. Voting is a way of supporting the constitution. I do not want a leader who has wrongful beliefs to be sending me off to different countries to perform acts that may or may not be morally correct. Therefore, to me personally, voting is so very important. I need leaders in office who want the best for our country and myself, while I fight for the United States of America.
At the close of the Constitutional Convention of 1787 one of the Founding Fathers was asked,“What have we got, a republic or a monarchy?” Benjamin Franklin replied, “A Republic, if you can keep it!” It is all United States citizens obligation to vote for leaders at the local, state, and federal levels. Many argue that they are better ways to help society and promote the common good then by voting. This can be true, however, donating to charities or creating jobs for others is great, but it does not help everyone in the society. When you have the chance to vote it effects each and every person living in the United States, not just a specific group. Voting was put into the Constitution many years ago. Amendment XV says no citizen can be denied the right to vote. Everyone’s vote counts, if you do not vote, someone else’s votes matters a little more. My vote can help create a better society by electing the right leader or leaders.
Together, the United States can unite and make our country better for all who must live here. My vote impacts everyone because it determines who leads this country in war, government decisions, and the lives of all citizens. I must promote the importance of voting because every vote counts and together we could change this society. The United States holds a title as the most powerful country, we need to continue living up to that title by completing a small act of voting for who leads our country.
You did a fantastic job with your blog Lauryn! I especially liked how you included how other governments around the world are ran as compared to the US, and how you included the part about your oath for the Military.
DeleteThe use of the quote by Martin Luther King was ingenious. Including the oath for the military was also a unique and intelligent idea.
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ReplyDeleteWhy my vote matters
ReplyDeleteYou may not think that one persons vote will make any difference. In many cases, the person who wins the popular vote will most likely not become the president. As in the case of last years election, Cliton won the popular vote and Trump won the electoral vote. So you may ask, why does it matter if I vote if the election does not go by the popular vote? However it does matter. The 15th amandment gives african americans the right to vote, as the 19th amendment gives women the right to vote. Everyone has the right to vote if they so chose to. Many people will complain about the state of the world, and how bad Trump had made the world. Many of those people have not voted. This is not right. These people have no right to complain about something that they didnt put there voice into. Even if the person you vote for does not get elected, you shouldn’t sit and complain. You should accept it for what it is and keep working to make this world a better place. When people turn 18, they have the right to register to vote. Many of us seniors will be able to register to vote in the next few months. It is important that we all register to our voice will be able to be heard. Yes, it may only be one vote, but that one vote matters, all of these people who believe that their “one vote” wont matter are wrong. If you would accumulate all of these people who believe they dont matter, it would create many more votes. Personally, when I turn 18 here in a couple months I will be registering to vote. I want to help make a better, safer environment for my future kids. Not voting will only mean that I am part of the problem and not part of the solution. I encourage everyone to be a part of a solution. We need to all group together to be part of a solution to help make a better world for a children and grandchildren. Recently this weekend another shooting took place, in Pittsburgh. It took place at a place of worship out of all places. These shooting seem to becoming more and more frequent. There was very few shootings 10 and 20 years ago. Just within the oast 5 years did the shootings becone more of a frequent thing. We need to secure that these shootings become less frequent. If these shootings continue to grow at the rate they are now, there will be no future for our kids. If we all vote, we can group together and hopefully stop these shootings. That way we can truly make America grear again!
Bryce O’Leary
ReplyDelete10/27/18
Mrs. Messineo
Voices of Democracy
Why My Vote Matters
We live in a world today where people are very simple-minded and don’t always look at the big picture. This statement especially applies in society today when regarding politics. The voting for the Presidential election is the biggest and most important event that takes place in the United States. The reason being because it can determine whether our nation will prosper or nosedive. A common assumption of the people is that one singular vote does not matter. In the short run, this statement is very true given the fact that millions of Americans vote each year and that one vote ultimately won’t change the election result. However, looking at a deeper point of view, one vote can absolutely change the outcome. It is important to look at this topic as it being a common belief that one vote won’t change anything. If a large percentage of Americans think this way, that one singular vote will turn into thousands of votes or more. For example, picture a group of one hundred young students voting for whether to have broccoli or brownies as a mandatory part of the meal at lunch. Yes, if one person out of the one hundred students decided not to vote it wouldn’t really change the outcome because most young children are going to easily choose brownies. However, if thirty-five students have that same mindset and choose not to vote, the final tally will be drastically changed and broccoli has a significantly higher chance of being picked. Personally, I believe that my vote matters because it means that I will have had somewhat of an impact on our great country. As Americans, we are given the freedom and right to speak our minds by voting, so why not take advantage of this freedom to make an impact on our nation? “One man can change the world,” famous rapper Big Sean stated in one of his most popular songs. This statement speaks volumes to me as it reminds me that I have power to put my mark on a nation that is the most powerful.
I thought your essay was pretty good Bryce. I think that the the way you used the song “One Man Can Change the World was excellent. It was a great way to think about it when looking at it from a younger persons perspective.
DeleteI agree with your points, and about how one should look at the big picture, Too many people don’t look at what’s in front of them.
DeleteThe setting is a cold, dirty, damp jail cell. The year is 1917. Alice Paul, a woman innocent of all crime is sitting in a jail cell being force-fed through a blue tube. She and many other women have been dealing with situations like this for years as part of their fight for women’s right to vote. It is now the year 2018, over 100 years later, and their hard work is being taken for granted. People are not acting upon their right to vote, a right that was established through the blood, sweat, and tears of many people. My vote is important because it is my tool in building the change I want to see.
ReplyDeleteAlice Paul and countless other women stood up to authorities and fought relentlessly for the 19th Amendment. Susan B. Anthony, another spokesperson for women’s suffrage, did not only fight for her right to vote, but for abolition, pro-life ideas, and temperance. Through her life, she demonstrated how one person can make a change. Today, women are battling with countless issues. Little by little, women are beginning to stand up for themselves and use their voices to combat issues such as sexual harassment, violence, equal pay, and so much more. One voice can start a snowball effect of many others who wish to be heard.
My vote allows me to stand up for the issues I want to see addressed. By doing research and voting for people that share similar beliefs as myself, I can see improvement. I can also change the things I do not support through my vote by voting against a candidate I do not like. There are many things I would like to see actively worked upon such as the production of more jobs, research on diseases, and gun control laws. I can push for these issues to be addressed by voting for candidates that share similar beliefs to myself.
A common misconception about voting is that one’s vote does not really amount to anything. This could not be further from the truth! My vote is my voice! A vote is something that seems so small, but puts power in the hands of all voters. By taking advantage of the power at the tips of all eligible voter’s fingertips, voter’s can reach extreme heights in the shaping of government.
By not taking advantage of the right to vote, citizens abuse the opportunity to express their beliefs. By neglecting to use the power placed at their fingertips, citizens fail to work toward their ideas of improvement. After officials are elected, non-voter’s cannot go back and decide to vote. The results reflect those elected into office, and it cannot be changed. If more minorities voted, different outcomes may result. By taking the time to practice your right to vote, the elected officials may reflect your decisions.
No matter who you are, where you live, or what you to, politics and elected officials greatly affect your life! By practicing your right to vote, you are fulfilling the desires of those such as Alice Paul, Susan B. Anthony, and others who advocated for the rights of people of all gender, race, and origin. Because the United States is a democracy, the power to elect those who will actively work to make a difference is in the hands of all citizens. So take advantage of the right to vote, because one vote can have colossal impact.
I really enjoyed your first paragraph. I just want to point out that in the last paragraph you said, “what you to” instead of “what you do.” Other than this small error, this was really good.
DeleteI really enjoyed the introduction to your essay, it really set the picture. I agree that officials affect people in every aspect as well and not many people realize it. People need to take up the opportunity to vote if they can!
DeleteBailey, I really enjoyed your essay, and how you started, very clever. Great job!
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ReplyDeleteThe detailed story of Alice Paul in the beginning of your essay is very eye catching to me. By using her in the final paragraph as well, you wrapped up your points very neatly. Good work!
Delete“We ask justice, we ask equality, we ask that all the civil and political rights that belong to citizens of the United States, be granted to us and our daughters forever,” declared women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony. Voting is acknowledged as the “crown jewel of American liberties,” and it is our duty to uphold the rights and responsibilities of being a citizen of the United States. All American citizens should make an appearance at their local polling station due to the fact that many veterans and suffragists laid down their lives for this right that so many people abuse, and to remove the stereotype that their candidate is “safe.”
ReplyDeleteAs a young woman anxiously awaiting my eighteenth birthday, many different questions regarding my vote are being thrown at me; such as “Why would you waste your time? It’s not like one vote is going to make a difference,” and “Are you sure you want to be involved in such a political mess?” My answers to these types of questions are, “Why wouldn't I?”
For all of my life, I have been exposed to the different tragedies that have taken place in my country, not just from history books, but from family members who now serve as veterans. One particular reason why my vote matters is because I know that people have laid down their lives for my right to vote. On June 4, 1919, the ninetieth amendment was passed by congress stating that women finally had the right to vote. Women’s suffragists such as Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucy Stone, and many more all put their blood, sweat, and tears into earning this right, not just for themselves, but for women all across America. Also, it is not only women that fought for this right, but men have watched their brothers and sisters take bullets and bombs just to protect the freedom of the red, white, and blue. So, for me to turn around and say, “Hey, thanks for everything but I don't really think my vote matters so I’m just going to sit at home instead,” is such an ignorant disgrace to America.
Oftentimes, people think that the voting ballot consists of the president and vice president, and do not give much consideration for local office and state legislature because they believe that their candidate, whom they want to win, is “safe.” Even if one’s home district is not a competitive race, it is still extremely important that they vote because there are so many elected positions that they want to ensure that everyone whom they want to win, wins. Local and state office are the ones who make the laws regarding reproductive rights, minimum wage, and gun laws in which everyone is so quick to argue about. It is these nominees who are not always millionaires, and can understand the opinions and needs of middle and lower class people. The best kept secret of election day are the new voters and non voters who finally shared their voice on the ballot.
Despite the opinions of others, there is no reason as to why I should not vote. Past relatives have been dragged through excruciating hardships just to lay a piece of paper down at my hands that could possibly determine the fate of our, city, state, and nation. We were given this right to express our interests. After all, if we do not vote for what we believe in, then who will?
I really enjoyed reading this, you did such a good job! I really enjoyed the part where you mentioned “men have watched their brothers and sisters take bullets and bombs just to protect the freedom of the red, white, and blue.” Again, you did a really good job on this.
DeleteI enjoy how you bring in personal experiences with tragedies, and different examples of all the women who fought for there right to cote.
DeleteWhy My Vote Matters
ReplyDelete“Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves and the only way they could do this is by not voting,” once declared by the notable Franklin D. Roosevelt. The act of voting is a method by which an individual or a variety of people expresses an opinion in a formal setting. The 15th, 19th, and 26th Amendments link together in such a way that they all reflect on voting rights. All races, genders, and pupils eighteen years of age or older all have the right and responsibility to vote; this role should be recognized properly. Voting does not only account for casting one’s opinion on a person or situation, but rather staying connected in the social atmosphere of American citizens.
Nowadays, voting rights are typically looked over by most young individuals as they believe it does not pertain to them in an extreme manner. Contrary to previous years, the only individuals that were allowed to cast a vote were Caucasian males. This was sought out as unfair to the remaining people in the United States, after all, they were considered citizens. The remaining citizens included women, African Americans, and other various groups that resided in the United States during the suffrage time period. These individuals insisted on change, but without the formal right to cast a vote, their opinions were not considered ‘valid’. Groups such as women and African Americans were relentless in the fight for the right and responsibility to vote. Not only were they thinking of themselves during this time, but future generations to come. The right to vote would become a staple in history for all to know and appreciate. In today’s society, as unfortunate as it is, some able voters would not think anything of it when it comes to the importance of their vote. Some might assume that their vote will not count towards anything, that voting will not affect them, or even that their age or group defines the validity of their vote. Every single aspect of an American citizen’s life is influenced by politics; by which they were put into power by a matter of popular vote. One person’s vote does not count more than another person’s vote, they are all of the same equivalency. Feeling powerless is common, but, in all actuality, the citizens have all of the power when it comes to elections, new laws, movements, etc. People have the opportunity to voice their opinion, they should use it effectively.
Voting affects every aspect in everyday life, in such that politics run the show. All individuals, eighteen years of age or older, have the right to vote. Voting is a form of democracy and without it, there would not be such a thing. Staying involved in politics and government allows a person to gain a better insight of how their own society works. If voting did not matter, previous groups would not have fought for the right in order to guide the future generations of the United States of America.
As a child I did not see why voting was such a big deal. I was not invested in what was going on around me. However, I now realize just how much it matters. Throughout the years America has fought for a lot. One example is the right to vote for women. Women such as Alice Paul and Lucy Stone risked their lives for something they believed in. With the help of others they gave all women the right to vote. As a girl in today’s world I do not want to waste an opportunity that others fought for me to have. It is because of women like that that I will be able to vote when I turn eighteen. Although I am not quite old enough to vote, my voice, though it may be small, still matters. Sometimes it does not take a shout to make a difference, but rather a whisper. It just takes an idea to get a thought put into action, and I am capable of that. All of the voters that will hit the polls this year are shaping a world that I will be a huge part of. They are giving power to the people that will change this world, for better or for worse. I’m sure we all want it to be for the better. That’s where my vote comes in. Through educating voters, we can all guarantee that those in office are going to do what is best for this country. I know that is something we all want. We want this country to be a symbol of hope for everyone. Through voting, and voting for the right people, we can obtain a goal set in place by those that came before us. It only takes one person, one vote, to make a difference. There have been tie votes in history. One example of this happened this year. In the Yancey v. Simonds election there was a difference of one vote. However, a judge ruled that a stray vote had been mismarked in Simonds’ favor. After this, the vote was declared a tie and the tie was broken by a random drawing from a bowl. The random drawing had elected David Yancey. This entire situation could’ve been avoided had more people voted. Voting is crucial, especially in the midterms. Turnout is often low in the midterm elections so the votes count even more in these situations. One vote has the power to change the entire outcome, and that one vote could belong to anybody. That one vote could belong to me. Many people tend to talk about elections, but they don’t actually vote. Think of how different the world would be if all of the people that complained about the elections actually voted. Approximately 47% of registered voters don’t vote. That 47% of voters equal out to about 160 million people. If one vote can make a difference, surely 160 million votes can make a difference as well. Although I am only one person I have the power to influence others. I do not intend to sit in silence because my voice, along with my vote, matters and can make a difference.
ReplyDeleteOne-third of the millennial generation accounts for all the votes yet, less than 50 percent of the age group 19-29 vote in all elections, when some elections come down to only two voters votes, that is when I know my vote matters! When I am of age, next year, I will vote because my vote, my five minutes to cast the vote, can make a difference in my future and the future of my children. The local votes can make many differences in my community that could greatly effect me. Voting allows me to elect people into office that will keep my conservative values. Voting is a privilege and a right that has been granted to almost every United States citizen. It gives us the ability to put the right people in charge to protect us, lead us, and serve us. Withholding a vote is never an option. The right candidate is always out there even if you have to write someone in. My vote is my voice. The voice that society has to listen to. The voice of the people. Most of all, my vote is my choice to show the world what I think is right and what people I think can make this country better than it was yesterday. Not giving a vote might not effect that person immediately or at all during their life, but it may effect the life of their children. A vote matters young or old. The lives of so many men and women have been given up for our beautiful country and yet people will not vote an let those lives go to waste. Voting allows me to protect my rights of religious freedom. My vote is important. My vote matters. When people refuse to vote they act as if they are a just a small portion of society so it wouldn’t matter because it would not make a difference. Imagine if that was the case in a persons everyday life. Say a group of friends are going on a picnic and all plan to bring a dish of their own. The day of the picnic is here and it is time to eat and one by one people say they “forgot to bring a dish” or “didn’t have time to make one” leaving every person at the picnic upset over the total outcome. In some cases this is when people start to get upset with others not seeing that they are in the wrong as well. In the polls people may skip out because they think others will do it and their vote won’t matter. This can leave people upset on the outcome of the votes but they didn’t take the time to show they cared in the the first place, just like in the picnic. All votes matter and this is why my vote matters! Besides who doesn’t love to get a free sticker!
ReplyDeleteI like the beginning statistic as well as the comparison with a picnic. The comparison really helps people get a better understanding of the issue.
DeleteThe United States of America has been prided for its basic Constitutional rights that it offers to its citizens since 1940. The only problem being that it wasn’t until 1965 when the Voting Rights Act was passed, which prohibited states from imposing discriminatory limitations on those who could vote. Later, in 1971 the voting age was lowered to eighteen. Throughout these periods of history, a large amount of suffragettes died while fighting for their rights. With this in mind, it is astonishing that only about sixty percent of eligible voters chose to vote during presidential elections and a mere forty percent during midterm elections.
ReplyDeleteVarious credible newspapers such as The New York Times and The Washington Post often contain several letters demanding refinement of the US. Along with this, millions of people have protested with signs and chants outside the State House. Yet when citizens are literally given the opportunity to vote for their future there is a low voting turnout. As a millennial living in the US, it is my duty and responsibility to participate in political proceedings. Who and what we vote for, directly determines our future as a united nation.
The US operates on democracy, liberty, and free will. At the basis of these three divisions is the US Constitution. Voting is the most vital right of this Constitution. In fact, voting isn’t an option, as a US citizen it is our obligation. It is voting that binds the nation, seeing that we vote for the greater good of the people. The common question is frequently asked, “why does my vote matter?” Many people think that because there are so many votes, their individual vote does not matter. This thought is completely absurd considering that fact that if you choose not to vote, then you are willingly letting a stranger decide your fate for you. Without every eligible vote, the democracy of the nation doesn’t function. With that said, if you are an American citizen you are not only responsible for yourself, but you are also responsible for the people around you, your country, and evidently the world. We are the voices of those who can’t speak, we are the glimpse of hope for those who have no light, and we are the salvation for those who suffer; but most importantly we are the future of America.
You wrote a very good paper here. It held a lot of power and motivation. However, I would like to point out the small detail that you're not a millennial, unless you're like 6 years older than I believe you to be. A millennial is a person born between 1977 and 1995, according to genhq.com. The people born after 1996 are generation Z. I hate to attack this small detail out of a wonderful paper, but with all the blame on certain generations I see these days. I think it is an important little thing to be aware of.
DeleteI strongly agree with your statement about letting other strangers change your fate if you choose not to vote. It is the responsibility of ourselves to get our voice heard and the easiest way to do this is by voting.
DeletePresident Kennedy once explained, “The ignorance of one voter in a democracy impairs the security of all." One voter out of the many can change an entire decision on which a country is based on. The right to vote is an honor and a privilege that many citizens take for granted in today’s society. Some people only choose to vote in bigger elections and choose not to take part in smaller elections. The right to vote exercises an individual’s freedom and shows how each person can greatly affect each other.
ReplyDeleteThe United States of America was founded on the morals of liberty and justice for all. America is a place where anyone can be anything. It is seen as a place of opportunity, possibility, and growth. People from all over the world come into the United States to be free from the horrible tragedies going on within their own native countries in search for the freedom that citizens have here. Many different minorities have fought for their own right to vote. Women, people of color, and legal immigrants alike have dedicated their lives to have this privilege, to be apart of something greater, that so many Americans now see as something that can be disregarded. As American citizens, it is our duty and responsibility to vote, as a way of being respectful for those who have risked their lives and have died for this gift to have a say in the future of the country.
So, what would happen if people stopped caring about having the right to vote? The country would be run by those in higher in power, and there would be nothing that the public could do about it. The country would soon be filled with even more corruption and there would be no way to fix it. Instead of only a few people choosing what is best for the country, everyone, from their different backgrounds and views, can come together to choose what is best for the country.
Some people do not think that their one vote really affects the overall outcome. However, if one person in a choir stops singing, the overall volume of the choir will, ever so slightly, decrease. Eventually, if everyone thinks that their voice does not matter, the volume of the choir will be so quiet, as if only a few voices are left. The same thing may happen when people stop exercising their right to vote. Eventually, the overall voice of the people will not be represented effectively, and the country will suffer greatly.
By not exercising ones right to vote, they are disregarding everything that citizens before them have struggled day by day for and have so vigorously and bravely fought for and defended. Voting is not something that should just be thrown into the wind. Rather it should be seen as a celebration of humanity, that all should take part in.
Great essay Emily. I love the quote from JFK and about the choir comparison. It's very strong essay overall
DeleteWhy my vote matters
ReplyDeleteI have grown up in a horrific, destructive, political state of the U.S. Even the year I was born, in 2001, there was fighting politically. In this year, the World Trade Towers were attacked and caused the worst terrorist attack in U.S. history. This caused the U.S. to change, it changed our composition of our country. It changed the way people thought about our politics and the way they work. I grew up watching the news every night, and began to have a fascination with politics. Unlike most kids, I enjoyed watching the news and began to learn about how the government works, and how voting works.
I learned about the good things in politics. It can changed society for the good, adding relief to those who don't have enough money, and help for those who have been rocked and ravished by natural disasters. These are amazing things, and it shows who in politics are good people. But there is bad in politics as well. Corruption, hypocrisy, and evil seep into this world of politics. Riots, such as the ones in Berkeley when President Trump was elected shows that simple people can be corrupted also, by these evil ideas and thoughts. It is unfortunate, but it's the way it is.
We can change that though. A vote, one vote, my vote, matters. If everyone has a mentality of "my vote matters, and it can make a change", things will be different. Yet, my generation doesn't have that mindset, and they think "voting is for the older, upper class people". This has been portraited in ads recently, like the ad "Dear Young People, Don't Vote" by NAIL Communication. It is a crude, frank ad of older people saying that people like me don't need to vote, it won't matter. This is false, as votes are non-discriminatory. It doesn't matter if your black or white, young or old, male or female. One vote can change the world. Look at the past presidential election. Donald Trump's was expected to lose the election by quite a few to Hillary Clinton. Yet he won by a large margain, winning areas the were supposed to be heavily rooted Democratic areas. But what happened? People came to vote, and came to vote in large numbers. These people had the motivation to vote, as they didn't want the other side to win. Thats what mentality can do. This is what we need in my generation, motivation. It is what we lack, unfortunately.
One vote can change everything, but we need that motivation to go and vote. With midterm elections coming, and many house seats on the brink of danger, my generation needs to vote. If I was 18, and I'm only 17, I would be going out to vote. Unfortunately, I know kids who aren't, because "it doesn't affect them". It does, and if it doesn't now it will. My vote matters because it will cause change and it will cause a chain reaction. If one of my friends sees me vote, they'll go, then someone will see them vote, and they go to vote then, and it causes a domino effect. This is how my vote matters. It gives that motivation to other kids of my generation. It gives hope for the future, and hope for such change. A vote, one vote, my vote, matters.
Very good overall. I actually really resonated with your idea of a domino effect of people voting and it leading others to. This was something that I hadn't even considered since I kind of considered voting to be a solo activity. Very nice.
DeleteWhy My Vote Matters
ReplyDeleteThe vote: a cornerstone of democracy, and the tool of the public to be a part of the elections; is what enables everyone to voice a belief and strive for change in this great country. However, the voices of the people often seem to be insignificant; overshadowed by the electoral college. After all, how can one individual's vote make a difference? Well, statistically, it can't. The single vote of an individual IS insignificant compared to that of the many.
The most recent presidential election was a good representation of this. The popular vote; the vote of the people, didn’t choose the president, the electoral college did. But is this bad? The members and voters of the electoral college are smart and dignified individuals. They do know what they’re talking about. Because their choices don’t only affect them, they affect everyone in their jurisdiction. They have to be careful of their decision, because their voices are the loudest. Many people were upset because the popular vote didn’t win. That’s how a democracy should work, right ?
Well, maybe. The electoral college acts similarly to a buffer, of sorts. It allows everyone to vote, while having a cushion to balance it out. Some people say that this is not right; that the people’s vote should have the whole choice. But some believe that there is an essential use for the electoral college because, let’s be honest, there ARE individuals out there who make stupid decisions. They, of course, have their right to vote, and that’s good, but the electoral vote is what makes it so that a group of individuals can’t make uninformed decisions that affect the whole country. People may want to argue, but the electoral college is a necessary part of the voting process in the United States. It is better this way, it is balanced. Everyone has a say in the matter, even if it may just be by trying and failing.
However, the vote of the individual is still outweighed by that of the many. The underdog of sorts. What happened that made the people insignificant? Why are the big businesses and corporations taking over this country that was founded to be that of the peoples? Well, fundamentally, their voices are louder. They have the resources to amplify their views, and they have the resources to act on them. This has been happening for years now. The small mom and pop shops are closing down; being overtaken by the big companies such as Walmart and Amazon. It is sad, it really is. It's life; survival of the fittest; evolution; Darwinism. But what can anyone do about it?
Vote! Voting is the best chance that anyone gets to have a say in the future of this country. One vote IS insignificant, but a collection of single votes becomes many. And a collection of single voters are not alone, they are strong together, they can be what they choose to be! There IS power in numbers! Don’t give up because the odds are against you. If everyone did that, there would be no democracy anymore. And that is the exact opposite of what the people want. So vote! Be the change you want to see. You may be insignificant, but you have to try! And realistically, that’s all anyone can do. Try! For better or for worse, give it a shot, and shoot for the stars!
The prompt of the assigned essay was “Why My Vote Matters,” and I feel this was very clear throughout your response. I enjoyed the discussion of the electoral college and I believe you showed that it has its place right next to the importance of the normal voters.
DeleteWhy my vote matters
ReplyDelete“It doesn’t matter anyways,” my friend stated. “My vote will never change the way this election will turn out,” she finished. This viewpoint is often seen within young people in the United States. They personally believe that their vote will not manage to change the outcome of an election. That opinion is truly incorrect and these people need to become informed on the truths. The percentage of the young American population that states it will show up to the 2018 midterm elections is about 28%. The rest is made up of older generation Americans who are already settled in life and have made a living for themselves. So how does this effect the nation? Well, the state of the country and its future is typically ignored by the older generations. Events such as global warming and minimum wage are pushed aside by the voters because the future of America does not matter to them since they probably won’t be around to see it. They are ignoring the youth that makes up a significant part of the nation. By doing this they are causing many disadvantages for the young people of America. The future is in the hands of the grandkids and great-grand kids of the old voters. How can they be so oblivious to the effects that their votes will have on the generations to come? This should make the young people of America go out and vote. Their beliefs and needs are being put aside for less important things, such as cutting taxes for the rich. Factors like these only cause disadvantages for the young and benefit the old. If every young person went out and voted, the changes in the outcomes would be drastically different. They would all be good changes too, because they would help the America that will becoming in the future. So, the mindset that your vote does not matter needs to be changed. One single vote can change the whole outcome of an election and that one vote could be yours. Think about it this way, one single vote would indeed matter if there was a tie, the last vote accounted for, which could be yours, could break that tie. No ones vote is lost at the polls, they are all seen and accounted for. Every American citizen, especially the youth, should vote to help America stay the great nation that it is and keep the future stable.
I really like how you ended the essay. It really makes you want to go out and vote. However, for me, it kind of feels like a stretch of the truth when you talk about how the older generation does not care about the future of the country.
DeleteWhy My Vote Matters
ReplyDeleteAlmost 139 million American voted in the 2016 presidential election. So, how could one vote affect anything? If everyone had this mindset no voters would turn up to the polls, and our strong representative democracy would be rendered useless. The point of our system of government is for the people to elect strong leaders to make laws for the benefit of the many. There are many reasons why each and every vote matters. A sense of patriotism is instilled in the voter when directly participating in the selection of legislators whether on the local level, or the national level. Also, when people of a specific group refuse to vote, their specific issues are not often voiced, young voters have an increased responsibility as they make up half of the voting force.
Not all governments in today’s age are represented by a strong government such as the one implanted in the United States. The unique opportunity of being able to participate directly in the government is a great responsibility. Citizens of the US should view this matter in a serious matter and approach it with a great sense of patriotism. It is no sin to be proud of your country, and individuals should feel this way.
Every vote today and in the past has mattered. One specific example of this is the younger voters situation. Many feel as if it is not possible to make an informed decision about selecting their ideal public figure, but this has never been further from the truth. With the technology and news coverage of today it is almost impossible to ignore the current politics and views. If the younger generation of voters decide not to inform themselves and participate they are only harming themselves. If the youth vote is diluted by an older generations number of ballots, the views and problems of this generation will not be addressed.
The greatest part about the United States is it’s revolutionary government that many have attempted to recreate. The voice of every voter is heard by the results of said election. This means that no vote goes uncounted or unnoticed. It is never too early to get involved in politics, even if under the required age to vote. Because those who are active in elections are the real shadow behind the structure of the United States government.
Isaac, I thought your essay was very well written , and I loved your ending, great job.
Delete“I believe that voting is the first act of building a community as well as building a country.” This was an expression of opinion given be John Ensign. He is revealing that we must have the urge to change our country from what we think is best. One of the most misused privilege Americans have is not taking the opportunity to vote from elected officials. Each person is given an equal opportunity to cast their vote for who they feel is most equips for the job. The definition describes voting as, “an expression of opinion or preference.” Therefore, you get to express thoroughly how you want the outcome of any election to be. By not doing this or not casting a vote, it could no longer be acceptable to complain about what the result ends up being. Roughly only fourth-five percent of America ends up voting in each election. As Americans we live in a government of democracy, and by not voting it leaves us kind of drifting from that. Countries all over do not have this same ran government. America’s government gives all citizens a chance to change their country for the better. Why not take advantage at this great privilege. By not casting a ballot it becomes a constant missed opportunity. There are countless reasons why casting a vote should be a must for each and every person. Every vote matters. Although things may occur to seem like they do not, they do. The youngest you are the more it impacts your future. No matter if it is of relevance to you, you should research and form genuine opinions about it. It is rather incomprehensible that people can genuinely say they do not really care because this is the future. The world we live in is precious. The way the world is ran through the good things, bad things, rules that have to be followed, what happens to our neighbors, and treatment of all people. These are all crucial reason to vote because why would you make other sacrifice? If you want things improved to abide by what you want with the country. We are very privileged to have such easy access to technology to perform research on any topic that could help understand who is who and just any information about the particular race, Elections are constantly changing and the more knowledgeable and familiar you are with what is occurring should kick in a drive or will to want to express your opinion. All people have opinions on all kinds of things. The outcome of elections is definitely one so, why not step up and add your say. By being an American it is a rifht and privilege that is had and must be taken advantage of.
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