How many times recently have you heard the phrase, “What a year?” I’m willing to bet… it’s a lot. And although last March feels like it was at least seven years ago, I can still think back and vividly remember the fear and uncertainty I felt as the globe started to shut down. Then, just as we were all starting to get used to “the new normal” (another phrase I hate), the killing of George Floyd shook us to our cores again.
Although this has been a momentous year, the pain and suffering that has been felt as a result of a deadly global pandemic and a much-needed social movement has not been for naught. As our old pal Rafiki told us, “The past can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it.” Enter stage left… the upcoming election.
With under a week to go, I can hear the world waiting with baited breath (when I mute the incessant campaign commercials, that is). This election feels like a precipice; like we’re staring down the tip of the iceberg that’s going to sink us like the Titanic unless we hurtle ourselves out of harm’s way. The rudder of our nation is our elected officials, which means you have the power to influence our fate.
This election season, I find myself more invested than ever. As a millennial, the events of this year are arguably the largest national experience my generation has ever seen. It has been a wakeup call in so many ways, and one that I know many of us will carry with us for the rest of our lives. We have seen firsthand just how much of an impact our leaders have on our everyday lives. And although we’ve been through a lot, unfortunately our work is far from done. Unsure of what the future holds, it is up to us to elect officials who are going to lead with empathy and a sense of humanity. Regardless of your politics, I ask you to join me this election season by educating yourself on the issues and the candidates and taking the necessary steps to cast your vote.
It’s true what they say, every vote counts. Don’t sit back and let other people decide your fate – take action and let your voice be heard this November.
Resources for voter education
Sample Ballot Lookup
View what your ballot will look like before you head to the polls. This resource is amazing – it even provides unbiased information about each candidate and issue on your particular ballot.
Resources for voter logistic information, including early voting options and precinct databases
- I am a voter. Our democracy works best when we all participate – I am a voter
- Ohio Voting Information
Nonprofits you can support who provide voter education and/or resources for women interested in political careers
League of Women Voters: Home
The League of Women Voters of the United States encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
She Should Run
She Should Run is a nonpartisan nonprofit working to dramatically increase the number of women considering a run for public office.
Early voting is available in Franklin County at Franklin County Board of Elections
Address:
1700 Morse Rd
Columbus, OH 43229
Hours:
M-F 8AM – 7PM
Sat 8AM – 4PM
Sun 1PM – 5PM
See you at the polls!
-Erin Hackett, YES! Columbus President
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