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Civic Duty Voting

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by

Greg Rogers
in

Question 01 /21
0 pt

Should voters be required to pass a civics test?

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Significance of Voting as a Civic Duty

Voting is fundamental to democracy. It honors those who fought for voting rights throughout history. While one vote may seem insignificant, elections are decided by the collective voices of many. Voting shapes policies that affect daily life, from education to infrastructure.

Universal civic duty voting has been proposed to address voter apathy. Regardless of convenience, voting is crucial to ensure laws represent the whole population, not just those who participate. Educating ourselves on issues is part of this civic responsibility.

"Voting is an act of civic love and a bet on our future," said Carl Zaragoza, Vice President of Elected Leadership for LEE. "Our children cannot yet vote, so it is critically important to keep our future generations in mind when voting. Decisions made today have long-lasting consequences."

Each election presents a choice – to participate in shaping our society’s future or to let others decide. Voting impacts not just the present, but echoes into future generations.

A montage of historical images showing the struggle for voting rights in America

Photo by unseenhistories on Unsplash

Impact of Voting on Local and National Levels

At the local level, voting has an immediate and personal impact. Local officials shape the immediate environment through decisions on:

  • Education
  • Urban development
  • Parks
  • Traffic
  • Essential services

Sheriffs influence local law enforcement policies. Zoning boards affect neighborhood economics and character.

At the federal level, representatives and senators craft nationwide policies on security, healthcare, and the economy. Federal laws influence state and local issues. Judicial appointments by elected officials impact civil rights for generations.

Whether local or national, voting ensures government reflects citizens’ values and aspirations. It is a tool for shaping society and upholding democratic ideals.

A diverse group of citizens participating in a local government meeting

Challenges and Barriers to Voting

Despite voting’s importance, barriers exist. Logistical issues like poorly distributed polling places or long lines deter participation. Rural voters may face long travel times.

Disinformation campaigns erode trust in electoral integrity. Varying voter ID laws across states can obstruct or facilitate voting, with critics arguing they disproportionately burden marginalized communities.

Efforts to improve participation include:

  • Advanced registration systems
  • Expanded early voting
  • All-mail voting

Secure online platforms could increase access, though technology’s pitfalls require scrutiny.

Addressing these barriers is crucial to preserve democracy’s integrity and ensure diverse participation.

Efforts to Encourage Voter Participation

Programs aim to educate and mobilize voters, especially underrepresented groups. The “Let’s Go Vote” initiative provides a comprehensive dashboard on registration and voting logistics. Campus events like Vote Early Day engage students through exhibits and mock voting exercises.

These efforts address misconceptions and uncertainties, making voting more accessible. Future initiatives may incorporate AI to personalize voter education.

Specific campus initiatives include:

  • Oct. 29 Vote Early Day tabling events
  • Nov. 4 Election Hero Day thank-you card signing
  • On-campus early voting site at the Museum Education Center
  • “Our Votes, Our Values” exhibit at the Art Museum

Continued expansion of such programs could enhance not just voter numbers, but also the quality of an informed electorate, strengthening democracy through increased participation.

Students participating in a lively campus voter registration drive

Voting shapes society, reflecting past struggles for this right. Ballots cast influence local and national landscapes, demonstrating that change is achievable through civic participation. As President Terri Lee Freeman of the National Civil Rights Museum stated, “We must exercise our franchise and take advantage of the right that so many before us died for to make sure we could be included in this process called democracy.”

  1. Dionne EJ, Rapoport M. 100% Democracy: The Case for Universal Voting. The New Press; 2022.
  2. Freeman TL. Exercising our Civil Right (…and Civic Responsibility) to VOTE! National Civil Rights Museum. November 4, 2014.