This year will be the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment and the 150th anniversary of the 15th amendment. For the last 100 years, both gender and race-based voting discrimination has been illegal, giving virtually anyone over the age of 18 the right to vote. So why don't more people actually exercise that right?

Many people in my generation seem to feel like they don't have a voice when it comes to politics and the way our country is run. I am always astounded to hear people my age complain about the decisions being made by our government, especially when there is something that they can do about it.

As we are becoming adults and beginning to make our own decisions, it is time to start thinking about what we want our future to look like. Instead of complaining that you don't like policies or rules being put in place, advocate for yourself by doing something about it.

There is no reason to believe that your voice cannot cause a difference. In fact, in 2016, census.gov reported that 21.6% of the voting population was between the ages of 18 and 29- giving us young people one-fifth of the vote. Imagine what our future would look like if we all worked together and voted for the things that we want to see. We are the youngest generation of adults and it is up to us to stand up for ourselves and do what is in our best interest. We must act now if we want to see a brighter future.

2020 is the year of a presidential election. If we do not like what is going on in the world, we must take it upon ourselves to advocate for the things we believe in. Be a leader and a positive influence. Vote, and encourage others to vote as well. You will be surprised to learn that your voice is a lot louder than you think. It is time for us to stop being helpless bystanders and rise up and participate in our future.