The United States is based on a democratic system. This means that educated and motivated citizens are required to affect change. However, in our present political atmosphere, the biggest obstacle encountered is that of indifference.
Too many people, both youth and adults, feel that their vote does not matter and they do not need to vote. A shocking reinforcement of this attitude is the most recent voter turnout in 2002 for the Alaska gubernatorial election, in which only about half of the registered voters showed up at the polls. This situation must change if we want our government to prosper.
For the past ten years, the Rock the Vote organization has felt the solution to dis enfranchisement is en franchisement--getting our young citizens so motivated that they feel the simple act of voting will change our government for the better. Positive changes in the national Rock the Vote campaign include registering 3 million young people to vote since 1991.
Since August 18, 2003, when Rock the Vote held its first official event, our presence in Alaska has registered over 65 new voters. We are gradually building our volunteer forces. Not only have we encouraged more young people to participate in their government by voting, but several youth have joined on to help us create positive social and political change in Alaska. This is an awesome turnaround in a demographic that, until this point of change, was consistently becoming more detached from the "system."
With involvement in Rock the Vote comes involvement in an organization with a national voice willing to present the issues concerning young people today. Indifference in today's society means a lost voice and the gradual progression toward a government that will be indifferent to its citizens. Rock the Vote preserves the voice of the next generation and uses music to encourage youth to express their opinions.
It is up to the individual to take ownership of his life, resist apathy and preserve the society in which he lives.
To do this, one must take these four things to heart:
• Take ownership. Your life, your work and your relationships all need your participation to succeed.
• Your future requires your vision. If you want something to happen, you have to act on it and ensure its safe passage to success.
• Have passion for life. Whether it is your life or life in general, both need the passionate caretaking only you can provide.
• Vote to protect your voice. If something is happening contrary to your opinions and you desire change, voting is the only way to make sure your voice is heard.
For more information or to participate in Rock the Vote, e-mail akrockthevote01@hotmail.com.
Rock the Vote brings youth voice
