Let’s begin with an internet attraction that has sparked my attention that mocks America’s right to vote: “voting for a president is exactly like choosing which STD is best for you.”

These analogies are belittling the fact that you, as an autonomous, homo sapien living in America, have the right to vote. Why are we devaluing one of our most important rights? Many countries around the world do not grant the right to vote. This meme and others of its nature are devaluing the fact that we are fortunate to be living in a country with a democratic government that reflects the voice of the people. The American people need to begin viewing voting as a privilege, not a right!

Voting allows citizens to have a voice, and opinion for the future of America. This is the time to reflect on injustices and issues that affect your life, your family, and future/present children. Not voting ultimately silences your voice. That silence enforces policies and changes that directly affect issues like, the environment, human rights, women’s rights, economic changes and all other areas of politics that impact you directly as well. Not voting condones sexism, racism, homophobia, etc and does not promote a society of equality. Not voting is non-action. If you believe you are an advocate for the American people, then vote.

When slightly more than 50% of eligible voters in America did not vote in the 2012 elections, the government only represented 50% of its people. The government can’t function successfully without participation from its citizens. It is a system based on responsibility and concern for the country's well-being and prosperous future. Turnout is necessary in order to represent the majority of the American population. Vote to promote your important and educated opinions, and vote to represent the voiceless and invisible who do not have the same right, like children. If you cannot see your voice clearly represented by either Clinton or Trump, then by all means, vote third party or independent. For God’s sake, you even have the right to vote for an animal. Even if you do not choose to participate in the primary election, always remember to vote in your community. This is where the American people make changes that can be noticed and help build a positive relationship with politics.

Moral of the story is do not think voting is not your responsibility. Don’t allow other people to make decisions for your country and life, your opinions are valued and necessary. Vote on behalf of the younger community, vote on behalf of people who do not have the right to vote in this country, and vote on behalf of what you truly believe in to establish progressive changes in our system. Do not minimize yourself to just another one in a million because voting does matter and putting your voice out there in terms of a vote is important and critical for a democracy. Remember, voting is a privilege, not a right, and not everyone has that privilege so make a stand for the issue and for the people that matter most to you.

For a little extra inspiration, I’ll leave you with a quote from Franklin D. Roosevelt, America’s 32nd president, “Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves and the only way they could do this is by not voting.” Also, keep in mind, there is always a better STD.