Election Day is Tuesday, November 3rd.

This election will be the first presidential election that I am eligible to participate in. Politics and civic duties might not be the most exciting things to talk about, but they are necessary to talk about. If you are breathing, existing and eligible to vote in the United States, then I urge you to do so.

Unfortunately, voter suppression is alive and well. Voter purges, gerrymandering and voter ID laws are just some of the methods used to restrict citizens’ right to vote. Therefore, your right to vote should never be taken for granted. Voting can make a difference and is arguably the most powerful way to do so. It’s not every day that you have this opportunity!

Leading up to Election day, take some time to educate yourself on what the candidates support and what they stand for. Social media should not be your only source of information. Read articles from reputable news sources, watch the news, debates and research the candidates.

Another important thing to remember is that you do not have to tell anyone who you are going to vote for. You can talk about your political views amongst close family and friends as much as you want, but even they do not have control over who you ultimately decide to vote for.

After you have decided on who you want to vote for in the 2020 election, prepare yourself for Election Day. Figure out where the polling stations are near your home, school or work. Think about what time of day you want to go and how you will get there. The same applies to early, absentee and mail in voting.

Once you have all your ducks in a row, you will be set! No one can force you to vote, but making the decision to vote is an opportunity to make your voice heard.