What can you do to encourage other people who are thinking about not voting?

Is not voting a bad thing? That question gets asked this time of year and it might often spark a lively debate. Voting is frequently viewed as a fundamental civic duty in a democracy, playing a crucial role in shaping policy and holding elected officials accountable.

 Reasons people might choose not to vote

• Disillusionment: Some people feel that their vote doesn’t make a difference, or that the system is flawed, leading them to abstain from voting.
• Lack of information: If someone feels uninformed about the candidates or issues, they might choose not to vote rather than make an uninformed decision.
• Protest: Not voting can be a form of protest against the political system or the choices available on the ballot.

Reasons people might say not voting is a bad thing

• Civic responsibility: Voting is often seen as a fundamental duty of citizens in a democracy. By voting, you contribute to the decision-making process that affects your community and country.
• Influence on policy: Voting gives you a voice in choosing leaders and shaping policies that impact various aspects of life, from education and healthcare to taxes and civil rights.
• Accountability: By voting, you hold elected officials accountable. Not voting can be seen as forfeiting the right to complain about political outcomes since you didn’t participate in the process.
• Impact: Not voting can have a collective impact, especially if large numbers of people abstain. It can affect the legitimacy of elected officials, and the representation of various groups in society.

What can you do to encourage people to vote? 

• Educate on importance: Explain how voting affects their daily lives and the issues they care about. Highlight the impact of policies on education, healthcare, and local services.
• Share information: Provide clear information about where, when, and how to vote. Make it easy for them by offering resources and guidance.
• Personalize the message: Connect voting to personal values and interests. Discuss how voting can help address specific concerns or support causes they care about.
• Lead by example: Share your own voting experiences and enthusiasm. Your actions can inspire others to participate.
• Organize voting events: Coordinate with friends, family, or community groups to plan activities around voting, such as group trips to the polls, or virtual discussions on election issues.

Are you ready to vote? Make sure to check your voter registration status, see who’s on your ballot, and make a voting plan here.