Every generation has its defining moment. In the 1800s, that moment was the start of the Civil War. The 1900s included two wars which forever changed the face of global politics. The sexual revolution, March on Washington, and Woodstock all deeply influenced the youth of the 1960s. For our generation-the Millenials-that defining moment is the 2016 election. For many of us, this is the first year we're voting. Many of us were too young to vote in previous elections. This election is both a blessing and a curse. 2016 is not a normal election. This election has included some of the biggest scandals in U.S. election history, including Trump's statements on Mexican immigrants, his plans to build a wall along the Mexican border, his plans to temporarily ban Muslims from entering the country, his lewd remarks about women, and his feud with a Gold Star family. (And Clinton's mishandled emails-let's not forget about those.) This election has seen more mudslinging than any other election in recent history. At the debates, there was little discussion of policy issues from either candidate. With all this scandal, why bother voting?
This year, we have the ability to really show the rest of the world what we're made of. We get to define our own values. What do we really value as Americans? Honesty? Courtesy? Diplomacy? Do we want someone culturally sensitive, or would we rather have someone who "tells it like it is"? Do you want someone with experience? What will foreign leaders think of the new POTUS? These are important questions as we near Election Day. Tomorrow, the fate of our nation will be decided. The power rests in our hands. Really think about who you want to represent our country and what our country should stand for. Think about who our new President would appoint to the Supreme Court and how that will affect our country long-term. What would future history students think? What would your grandchildren think?
Maybe you think one candidate is far worse than the other. Maybe you think they're both equally bad and you're completely lost. That's okay. You still have a little bit of time to decide. And when all else fails, go with your gut. This is our country, and only we get to define it. This incredible election is both a blessing and a curse.
This is your chance.
Millenials, do not throw away your shot.
