I Vote Because It Empowers Me as a Woman, a Mother, and a Citizen

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When I was younger, I often shied away from political discussions. My hesitance came from a lack of understanding about the political process and feeling unprepared to engage in heated debates. I had not taken the time to truly explore my own political beliefs, and while I could name the key figures in my political party, I didn’t feel confident in defending my views.

As a result, I let election seasons slip by without much thought. I participated in national elections every four years, but until recently, I struggled to articulate what Congress actually did, let alone support the leaders making decisions in Washington.

This all changed for me following a tragic event: the Virginia Tech shootings in April 2007, where 32 college students lost their lives to a disturbed peer. Like many others, I watched in horror as discussions about gun control, campus safety, and mental health services unfolded. I couldn’t help but be heartbroken by the faces of the victims and felt a deep sense of unease about the state of our nation.

As a mother of a soon-to-be-kindergartner, I worried about his safety. Who would protect him from potential threats at school? What resources did my community provide for those struggling with mental health issues? And where exactly were my local tax dollars going? I knew I had to educate myself.

Fortunately, a local politician was hosting a pancake breakfast meet-and-greet soon after, and I decided to attend. I arranged for a babysitter and walked into the fire hall, my nerves bubbling beneath the surface. Who was I to question an elected official? What right did I have to challenge the system?

But I was a mother determined to protect my child. I was a woman ready to confront my fears of appearing uninformed about critical issues. And I was a citizen in a democracy where my forebearers fought for my right to ask questions and seek answers.

As I poured syrup over my pancakes, I listened intently, waiting for my opportunity to speak. When the representative finally took my question, I hesitated. I stood up, fiddling with my wedding rings, and glanced around at the room full of ordinary people. I found my strength and asked him what he intended to do to keep my son safe in the wake of the Virginia Tech tragedy. It felt empowering.

To his credit, he answered me directly and honestly, discussing limitations in funding and the complexities of bureaucracy. He may not have had all the solutions that day, but I felt heard, and that meant everything. By the end of the breakfast, I had the chance to speak with the local fire chief, who explained the safety protocols in place for our elementary schools. He even shared blueprints and assured me he would do everything possible to protect my son.

I left that pancake breakfast feeling empowered, not just from the food but from the sense of agency I had gained. That fall, I cast my first vote in a local election for that politician, marking a significant milestone in my journey.

This is why I vote: not to argue or belittle opposing viewpoints, but to regain control in a tumultuous political landscape. When I hear alarming rhetoric in the news, I remind myself that I have a voice that can be heard with the pull of a lever. I vote because my local representatives are part of my community, just like me. We are all people, as the Constitution affirms.

I vote because I have evolved from the uncertain woman I once was. It wasn’t long ago that women were denied the right to vote, and I cherish that privilege. I vote with conviction, no longer hiding from political discussions. I feel empowered every time I step into that voting booth—it’s like I’m a superhero.

So, whatever it takes—find a babysitter, bring your kids, take a break from work—just make sure you exercise your right to vote on November 8.

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In summary, voting is not just a duty; it is an empowering act that allows me to take control of my life as a woman, a mother, and a citizen.