"My opinion doesn't matter, so why should I vote?"
Whether or not you like politics, it is a huge part of our every day lives. It is the largest influence in deciding public policies, economic investments, and societal infrastructure. As we know, each one of these factors heavily influences educational policies. Politics are what guide our country in the direction we desire it to move. Politics interpret citizens' interests and values, connect these with current realities, influences from the past, and builds power through action.
Voting is at the heart of our democratic body; it is a direct message sent to the United States government about how you, as a citizen want to be governed. We have this unique opportunity to represent ourselves, our voice, and our opinion, yet only about about 60% of the eligible voting population votes during presidential election years and about 40% votes during midterm elections. Young people, from ages 18-29 are much less likely to vote than older individuals. From 1972 to 2012, this age group has turned out at a rate 15- 20 points lower than citizens 30 and older.
Voter turnout is a fundamental process to a healthy and representative democracy. With this in mind, why don't people vote? People first and foremost feel their vote is not representative of their beliefs, therefore, why should they bother? They feel registration is too difficult or time consuming. The difficulty of obtaining an absentee ballot can deter people from voting on a given election day. Elections taking place on weekdays, namely the Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Most people find it difficult to get off work, find transportation, and make time in their hectic days to get to the polls. A low turn out means citizens feel their voice and opinion is not properly represented. How can we change that?
With all these valid excuses, why am I asking you to vote? It is because it is your duty as an educator and advocate to get your vote, a vote for public education to be seen, heard, and to make a difference this year and every year in public policy. As future educators and leaders in society, we are the voice in public policy. We, as Student PSEA members can be the change; we can be the advocates not only for today, but for the future. Though you may feel your voice is lost in the shuffle, you taking an active stance is direct representation of your interests. Every year, we must vote for valid candidates who support public education and are willing to invest in our future generations.
In Pennsylvania this year, we have some vitally important positions to elect. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court race is providing a unique opportunity for its voters. This is the first time there have been 3 simultaneous vacancies on the bench since 1704. This is the first chance Pennsylvanians have an opportunity to change the make-up of the Court. This importance cannot be downplayed, the outcome of this election will directly affect key issues coming before the court like: school funding, school vouchers, pensions, collective bargaining rights, civil rights, voting rights, and gerrymandering. PSEA has recommended: Judge David Wecht, Judge Kevin Dougherty, and Judge Christine Donohue for their stances on these issues.
A majority of positions this year are held at the municipal level, voting for school board officials, and various other local positions which will directly affect our positions in the near future. Though it may not seem important to you now, three years from now, when you are applying for jobs, a school board will be a key factor in deciding your position or lack thereof. These elections will have a huge impact in your life.
Please, don't delay in registering to vote. Sign up online or in person, following the steps at www.votespa.com.
I commend you for your continued dedication and commitment for public education. I look forward to seeing you in the polls on this election day, Tuesday November 3rd. Get out there, make your voice heard, and vote for what you believe in.
A majority of positions this year are held at the municipal level, voting for school board officials, and various other local positions which will directly affect our positions in the near future. Though it may not seem important to you now, three years from now, when you are applying for jobs, a school board will be a key factor in deciding your position or lack thereof. These elections will have a huge impact in your life.
Please, don't delay in registering to vote. Sign up online or in person, following the steps at www.votespa.com.
I commend you for your continued dedication and commitment for public education. I look forward to seeing you in the polls on this election day, Tuesday November 3rd. Get out there, make your voice heard, and vote for what you believe in.
-Ashley Muscarella
Student PSEA State President
(Ashley, left; Chris Clayton, PSEA Assistant Director for Education Services; Lauren Williams, former Student PSEA State President)
