“This land is your land, this land is my land.” Familiar lyrics in a composition by singer-songwriter Woody Guthrie in 1940. There is so much pride and privilege exhibited as we exercise our voting rights especially in a presidential election year. Proof of pride can be seen on the lapels, jackets, or shirts of voters as they display their “I Voted” gummed stickers. Somehow, I always notice those who display the symbolic evidence that they have been to the polling booth. Synonymously, it is also noted those without any emblem of doing their patriotic duty. It is very apparent the pride shown in voters that engaged in the process.
We may all have glimpses of our own personal voting record. Our first exposure to the election process may have occurred during school days when we voted for the class president. We may have had a family vote while surfing television channels deciding whether we watch football or The Hallmark Channel.
Whether you are a candidate or support a candidate or cause it’s enviable to be involved in the process. We have all had opportunities to vote on candidates for school boards and organizations, bond issues, and for county and state government officials. The selection process, after debate and deliberation, ultimately determined by the vote of the majority, has been a foundation for our democracy since our country’s inception.
Voting rights and rules continue to change and evolve. In fact, this year marks the 100-year anniversary that women were afforded the right to vote. I don’t remember women not being able to cast a ballot, but in 1920 it took a vote of the majority of lawmakers to allow them such rights. Voting is important. This November 3rd, go to your designated polling place, cast your ballot, get one of those “I Voted” lapel stickers, and wear it proudly!