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To vote or not to vote?

American students on their civil duties

Elections are probably the weirdest time of the year for many people. It does not depend where they take place: in the world's metropolitan New York or in a small town in Poland. Candidates spend thousands of dollars or zlotys while electors try to make themselves familiar with candidates' resolutions or just do not care.

Many historical facts show that students have frequently been an important part of different political movements. Due to their young age and enthusiasm they have concerned about acute problems in their society and, therefore, have taken an active part in elections. At least that refers to most European countries. The best example is France where most strikes have started on college campuses.

People of all ages get frustrated by politicians, but it is older generations that turn out to vote in the U.S. The American students, especially those who attend community colleges, are apparently not interested in the political running. Many lack the motivation to learn about the candidate's backgrounds, others believe that their voice won't count even if they vote. What they don't realize is that a voice, no matter how singular, will always make a difference. During the 2004 presidential campaign, George W. Bush won by 118,601 votes. By national standards that is akin to "winning by a hair." Who know what the outcome would have been if more college students had turned out to vote.

What is most disheartening about the lack of interest from young people is that they are so underrepresented in government. Young Americans make up the majority of soldiers in Iraq, and are therefore directly affected by the war. Yet this demographic does not vote to appoint politicians that will represent their views. Some have probably never been exposed to the workings of politics and some probably just don't care. But more young adults need to care about who is making the big decisions about their lives.

Students need to see that they have the power to change the way America runs. Young Americans need to vote during every selection. It's not a privilege, it's a civil duty.

Learn more about this author, Aviva Lev.
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