When We All Vote
By Julius McAllister, III,11thEpiscopal District
My name is Julius Harrison McAllister, III and I am a college sophomore with a major in political science with an education minor. I attend Morehouse College. I was recently invited to speak at a rally at Spelman College entitled, “When We All Vote.” I spoke alongside CNN analyst and advocate Angela Rye about the importance of voting. The rally was designed to encourage every student, faculty, and staff member of our beloved institutions to be sure and register to vote!
Historic elections are taking place all over the country. The blatant disregard for humanity carried out by the United States federal government has led to a strong interest in reshaping who we allow to represent our local and state government. Where I currently live in Georgia, Stacey Abrams is leading a progressive campaign to become the first black woman governor in history. In my home state of Florida, Andrew Gillum—a Democratic nominee—is taking a traditionally red state by storm. Voting is more important than it has ever been.
This November will be my first midterm election. I have learned in every social studies and civic class over the years that it is my civic duty to vote. As students of this present age, we must do our due diligence to take part in this awesome civic responsibility in which so many people fought and died. It is up to us to show the nation that we believe in a just democracy that gives us a voice to speak against injustice and live peacefully.
When we vote in November and in elections to come, it is important to realize that every voice matters, both young and old. As students, we must not let people assume that we don’t care about our nation’s issues. The time is now for us to become politically active and astute. Take time to read, think, and process the issues that our local, state, and national governments are facing. Then, we will realize how our actions and voting helps to secure our futures. Everybody has a reason to be involved.
Regardless of your political party, now is not the time for us to be apathetic. Now is most certainly not the time to not participate because you have been convinced that your voice has no power. Our choices in November will indeed impact each of our lives!
Lastly, the leaders we elect in November will represent us all. Whether it be the climate, economy, criminal justice reform, education, healthcare, or foreign policy, allow your voice to be heard because when we all vote, things will change for the better. When we all vote, we create a community that addresses the needs of each individual regardless of race, color, creed, sex, shape, or gender. Allow your voice and ideas to be heard through your vote! One vote can change the lives of millions.
