Why Do Young People Care About Voting?
We asked seven young people why they are voting in the 2018 midterm elections or, if they are under 18, we asked why they should care. Here are their answers.
It is extremely important for young people to vote as we represent one of the most diverse groups, yet our voter turnout is less than optimal. Midterms are equally, if not more important, than general elections. By voting, we are taking control of our own futures and using our voices to improve policies that affect us.
– Emily, 17 (turning 18 this week)
I am voting as I believe it is a privilege to have the capability to influence policy that will affect me and generations to come. Principally, I want my voice to be heard. I feel especially compelled to vote as I currently reside in Pennsylvania, which, as a swing state, is even more influential in representation.
– David, 20
I am almost old enough to vote, which is super frustrating. With so many different sources, opinions, and stories at our fingertips, we have a civic responsibility to take the time to understand the issues that face our world and that we now get to vote on. We need to read different perspectives -perspectives that are completely different from our own – in order to make decisions about our country that are informed. It means doing some homework, but I have faith that my generation understands the gravity of our input because we have grown up in such a highly polarized political climate.
– Annie, 17
If you vote, then you can complain. People who don’t vote can’t complain.
– Charlie, 14
Students marching in support of gun safety March for Our Lives. IMAGE: ROSS TAYLOR/GETTY IMAGES
It is hard not to take it personally when the government of the country I am so lucky to live in doesn’t want my family to have rights, doesn’t want my friends to be here, doesn’t think I should exist with any human rights. So when I see people who don’t want to vote or don’t put the little effort it takes into vote I want to scream. Busyness is not an excuse, stress is not an excuse. It is essential to the wellbeing of our country and our own mental health to vote.
– Marcos, 20
Someone had to fight to get the right for us to be able to vote, so when we turn 18 it is a big deal. When I turn 18, I will vote.
– Kate, 17
Seeing an unexpected and unprecedented result from the last major election which I wasn’t able to participate in has made me want to have my voice heard! the only way I can create change is to use my voice. It’s the first time my generation is able to have a say in a national conversation and if we want things to change it has to come from us. It can’t come from older generations, especially because they have shown us that they grew up with different priorities and values, and I would like to see my own reflected in policy and legislation.
– Marley, 18
Questions for these young people? Email curious@culturesofdignity.com
Learn about the different ways we work with young people at Cultures of Dignity:
