D#3, HW#3 - The Writer's Place

I was scared to vote when I turned 18 because I didn’t know how or what I was supposed to do. Unfortunately, I dropped out of high school two years before I was to graduate and possibly missed the opportunity to receive formal training regarding voting and its processes. I felt awkward in asking my family and friends for fear of being viewed as incompetent. Finally in my late 20’s, I gained the courage I needed to ask questions and overcame my fear by realizing numerous people died to ensure I had the freedom and right to vote. Had I learned voting wasn’t as complicated as I thought it was earlier, I could have affected changes regarding important issues throughout my life.

I recently just returned from a family reunion that traditionally on the last day the family votes as to where the next reunion will be held. My immediate family is invested in this outcome as the cost of flying, driving, hotels and other expenses need to be considered and planned. Each member of the family, from the elders to the little ones, is able to vote as to which location will host the next family event. It wasn’t until this recent event that I became aware of the fact that my family has tried to instill the freedom of voting throughout each generation. It reminded me of my limited knowledge regarding voting and how fearful I used to be of the simple process.

These experiences have led to my desire to learn what I can about voting and to encourage others to do the same. A few key questions I’d like to know are: what educational material or tools are available to the American people; should learning about voting be improved; should voting be required in school; who offers education of voting?

Our children will have the power to affect our lives with their decisions in the future. Children learn by example. Reinforcing education about voting through all possible avenues will enable a stronger democracy.