I feel we need more social awareness about voting and registering to vote. Frequently I have conversations with friends about the current events associated with our country.  It bothers me when I hear people talking about what they like or dislike about government elects but then you also hear them say” that’s why I don’t vote because nothing changes”(Friends). 

A lot of people who choose not to vote are the one’s not trying to enhance their situation by not embracing the polls.  This is mainly directed at our younger generation who a lot of them no matter the ethnic background could care less about voting.  Sadly, when things start affecting them, or someone or a situation than we hear the negativity associated with politics. 

Many people start feeling that voting does not help their life or living situation. Azalia Contreras, a Hispanic voter in Miami, said “despite the outreach candidates in Florida from both parties can count her out this year”. They are all the same, “said Contreras.  “I am not voting this time or anymore while I’m alive” (Contreras).  Statistics show non-voters are younger, less educated and less affluent, also more likely to be a member of a minority group. Andrew Toth president of the Dole Institute of Politics student advisory board stated “personal education about political affairs is the next key”. “Everyone should make a point to stay informed about political leaders and know what their position is and what it does” (Toth). 

According to Midterm elections an estimated 22.8 percent of all eligible young people ages 18-29 voted in the 2010 Midterms.  In 2008, young women came out to the polls in large numbers. Here are some statistics associated with women votes; 55 percent of young voters were women, this is a consistent trend with 53 percent of all votes cast by women.  Also, this was especially strong for young African American voters, 61 percent who came to the polls were women. 

The best method of attracting new voters is by going door to door.  Also, getting young people who can be looked at as peers could help with the education aspect and information, according to The Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement. The least effective method is an automated phone call.  Start in the very beginning with basics telling a voter where to vote, when to vote and how to operate voting machines.  I feel voter’s especially young individuals are vital because when they become interested they will return. 

To bring more social awareness I would use the door to door method.  I would leave flyers, and literature for potential new voter to read and understand and also giving them the option to actually learn some facts about issue being voted on by the public.  Also radio is extremely powerful especially early mornings and evenings for young adults.  Radio stations are listened to by college students who could help educate those who are less educated and may not fully understand what they are voting for. 

Another way I would spread the message is by word of mouth this is a powerful way of getting the word out. This is also another way to educate people on a one on one basis. This form of advertising can be done by getting dedicated voting citizens to speak with others on campuses, in front of stores, malls, via telephone conversations with friends and becoming active in communities. I would also consider billboard advertising especially in the inner cities metropolitan areas to help get the message out affectively.

This topic is very important to me because a lot of important issues are being voted on and addressed and we need to decide on those issues as whole and not just certain age groups.  Furthermore, we have politicians that are running for office and we need to educate ourselves on what those people’s issues are instead of complaining about what happens in the future when the future is in the hands of the voters.

This is not a race issue because a lot of younger generations of all races should participate and become interested in making a difference and vote on Election Day and return when Midterm voting is scheduled.  There are a lot of things I do not know but I enjoy learning about what politicians are focused on and who is running for what and who is running against each whom. 

Also, a lot of people forget that it takes years to fix problems that arise in our country.  The president cannot repair every situation as soon as he is sworn in as the leader of our nation. Once people understand that, that is almost impossible to do, they will be more willing to still participate and exercise their right as being an American citizen and go vote.  It is vital that people understand that the president has steps he has to take before changes to our country can be made.  This also applies to a certain bill being put on the table for the public to vote on. If you’re not willing to vote, you should not be upset if you do not like the outcome of the situation in the future. 

Works Cited 

Bondon, John. “Voting turnout among young adults decreases for 2010 Midterm elections.” November 15, 2010. 

Dwyer, Devin. “Will Majority of Americans not vote in 2010 Midterm Election.” November 2, 2010. government. “Youth Ohio City Cycles on Voting.” N/A. 

DeWayne White AKA BraineMatter AKA Max

Max Pro Check Publishing