Voting

The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.

—15th Amendment

Representative John Lewis encouraged his constituents to vote. His message, however, is appropriate for all U.S. citizens. When citizens vote, democracy is protected, is more representative and, therefore, is more alive. Public schools teach students the characteristics of good citizenship: civility and respect, trustworthiness and fairness, cooperation, and voicing opinions in positive ways. Good citizenship requires individuals to become informed, active voters. This is not just a fundamental right but a civic responsibility.

Who can vote in our country? Well, it is a long story: Continue reading “Why Voting Matters”