When I was younger, I tended to avoid political conversations. My hesitation stemmed from not completely grasping the political landscape and feeling like I didn’t have the knowledge to engage in heated debates. I hadn’t really explored my own political beliefs, and while I could name the key figures in my political party, I felt lost when it came to defending my views.
So, I let election cycles pass me by, casting my ballot every four years but hardly knowing what Congress actually did or who represented me in the Capitol.
That all shifted for me after the tragic shootings at Virginia Tech. In April 2007, 32 innocent college students lost their lives to a disturbed individual. Like many, I was horrified as the media debated gun control, campus safety, and the state of mental health services in our country. I cried for the victims and questioned how our nation could feel so broken once again.
As a mother with a son about to start kindergarten, I was filled with anxiety. Who would protect him from a potential threat at school? What mental health services were available in my community? Where were my local tax dollars going? I realized I needed answers.
Fate intervened when a local politician hosted a pancake breakfast to connect with constituents. I decided to attend, arranging for a babysitter and feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. Who was I to question an official? Was it my place to disrupt a pleasant breakfast with my concerns about school safety? But I reminded myself, I was a mother seeking to protect my children.
I was a woman confronting my fear of appearing uninformed on important issues. I was a citizen in a democracy that was built on the sacrifices of those who fought for my right to ask questions and make my voice heard.
As I poured syrup over my pancakes, I listened intently, waiting for my chance to speak. When the representative finally took my question, I started off shyly. Fidgeting with my wedding rings, I scanned the room filled with regular folks like me. I found my courage and asked him what measures he would implement to ensure my son’s safety following the Virginia Tech tragedy. In that moment, I felt a surge of empowerment.
To his credit, he responded candidly. He discussed funding limitations, bureaucratic hurdles, and party divisions. While he didn’t have all the answers, I felt validated and that meant the world to me. At the end of the breakfast, when the representative introduced me to the local fire chief, I was relieved to hear about the tactical measures in place for our schools. He even showed me the school blueprints from his car and promised he would do everything in his power to protect my son.
I left that breakfast not just full from the pancakes but also filled with a sense of agency. That day marked the first time I voted in a local election, casting my ballot for that very politician.
And this is why I vote. Not to argue or belittle differing opinions, but because it gives me a sense of control in an unpredictable political landscape. When the news is filled with disheartening rhetoric, I remind myself that my voice matters, and I can make it heard when I step into the voting booth. I vote because my local representatives are part of my community, shopping in the same stores I do. At the end of the day, we’re all just people, as our Constitution reminds us.
I vote because I’m no longer that timid, uncertain woman from years ago. I vote because women fought hard for the right to express their views at the polls. I vote because I believe in my convictions and no longer shy away from political discussions.
I vote because it feels like I’m wearing a cape when I cast my ballot. So whatever it takes—find a babysitter, bring your kids, or even take a long lunch break—make sure you VOTE in November!
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In summary, voting empowers individuals to express their beliefs and influence their communities, transforming uncertainty into action and making democracy accessible to everyone.