This is for the people who “stay out” of politics. We need to go all in.
Now more than ever, there’s something political about “staying out of politics.” We cannot decide that we are “too good” for it, or that we don’t want to get involved.
The stakes of the upcoming election are too high. The stakes for the future of this state, this country, and even world put us in a necessary place of action.
There’s something political about staying out of politics. In my opinion, it takes a certain level of cognizant ignorance to refrain from politics in 2020.
The short answer to getting involved: vote. Vote early, vote now, vote as soon as possible. As members of Gen Z, many of us are voting in the General Election for the first time in our lives. Exercise this right for those who don’t have it!
Vote for the children who cannot wait for the day they get to vote. Vote for their future.
Vote for the people who have been disenfranchised by the prison and judicial system. Vote to give them a voice.
Vote for those who are not citizens of the United States and dream of being able to vote. Vote to empower others.
Registering to vote and voting itself can feel like an intimidating process – but it doesn’t have to be. I encourage you to take a look at the resources provided on myvote.wi.gov! Gather friends and family to do the same.
Here’s the long answer to getting involved: start with a cause you’re passionate about. It’s impossible to become an expert on everything, so start small. Maybe it’s rank-choice voting, healthcare access, or climate change. Maybe it’s something totally different!
A good place to start is education. Read articles, watch documentaries, or research activists that feel strongly about the same cause. Then, share that information! Social media is a great way to do this, or even through casual conversations with those around you.
Eventually, you will feel confident in your knowledge of issues that matter to you. Use this to your benefit – whether you decide to join an organization on campus that advocates for a certain cause, or maybe start your own. It only takes one person to start a movement.
I encourage you to take this message and move forward because:
“Someone struggled for your right to vote. Use it.” – Susan B. Anthony