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Tuesday, September 25, 2012

"All that Matters is that You Vote."

Today is National Voter Registration Day! If you have not already registered to vote, take action now to ensure that your voice is heard this November.

But...while we're on this topic, I'd like to tackle a BIG myth that I hear perpetuated in tandem with this topic. People will say, in an effort to be inclusive and non-partisan, "It doesn't matter how you vote, all that matters is that you vote."

While I appreciate the effort at neutrality here (no one should ever be bullied into a vote!) I've got to say I totally disagree with the sentiment. It's true, voting is a cornerstone of a democratic society. But if it is done without taking steps to inform yourself about who would be the best representative of your views, it's a waste and could work to your own detriment.

So no--voting is not all that matters. Making an informed vote is what counts. But beyond that, voting alone does not a "good citizen" make. We can't forget about all the other ways to be a civically involved person, too. Volunteering at a local nonprofit, peacefully protesting legislation you oppose, singing petitions, organizing a food drive, picking up after your dog, and helping your elderly neighbor mow his lawn...all that stuff counts too!

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