WHEN THEY GO LOW, WE GO VOTE

There is too much turmoil in our country today. There is too much division between genders, races and economic classes. We have built deep moats around justice, education, health care and decent housing that should be the province of all and not the preserve of the few.

So much of the turmoil seems purposefully intended to make us give up hope on creating a society based on inclusion, diversity, equity and access, the big IDEAs of this time and place. We can surrender to the forces determined to look backward and govern by minority, or we can forge ahead to address climate change, a fairer justice system, respect for truth, less poverty, an end to violence and discrimination against women everywhere, unequivocal condemnation of racism, universal health care and respect for LGBTQ people, confident that a vast majority of Americans favor these propositions.

Don’t let the forces of retrogression overwhelm you with shiny objects and red herrings. To paraphrase former First Lady Michelle Obama, WHEN THEY GO LOW, WE GO VOTE. The right to vote is often described as the right that protects all other rights. It is the way we collectively express our moral, economic and cultural preferences. A decisive vote is more persuasive and a better guarantee of elected officials’ accountability than campaign contributions. Make a plan to vote: early in person, on election day, or by mail. Whatever you choose, share the plan with friends, family, contacts and community organizations. Make a plan to vote as if lives you care about depend on it. Because they do.

Peace and Power!
Janice L. Mathis, Esq.
Executive Director, NCNW, Inc.