To the editor:
As we approach the Nov. 8 election, all eligible voters have a responsibility to participate in the process that people in other parts of the world die for: the right to vote.
More than in recent elections, people are hungry for change, whatever that means. In order to affect any change, we must not be complacent and sit out because of the thought that nothing will be different. To stay home ensures that no change will ever occur and one’s right to complain about the results is forfeit.
Before entering the voting booth, we all need to honestly ask ourselves in which direction we want to see the country go. In other words, “What’s in YOUR basket?”
The choices are numerous and will have long-lasting effects: misogyny or respect, racism and bigotry or diversity, homophobia or inclusion, xenophobia or global partnerships, wretched excess or environmental stewardship, division or unity, “I got mine; s***s to be you” or “lift all boats.”
There is much at stake in a few weeks. Will fear mongering and suspicion paralyze our democracy, or will all people of good will exercise their constitutional right to have a say in how we are governed?
The right to vote is one thing that rich, poor, and everyone in between shares equally. Don’t squander it by opting out.
Marie Harvey
Hillsborough
