Over the weekend I had the opportunity of a lifetime: to stand arm in arm with Gloria Steinem, one of the founding Feminist Warriors of our time, and founder of Ms. Magazine.
Gloria was speaking at a “get out the vote” engagement in my city, and she revved up the small crowd of about 150 supporters. She reminded us that Election Day is the one day when the least powerful become the most powerful. She reminded us that the United States plays a large and important role in the lives of people all over the world, and that this election will affect not only the citizens within our borders, but also the lives of humans internationally. When we step into the voter booth we are making a choice that ripples far across the globe.
I had not thought about my ballot in such impactful terms, but when I think about the international support we offer in the form of reproductive health monies and HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns worldwide, I realize the personal is the political, and what one does effects others.
No matter who you vote for this election season, I encourage you to utilize your constitutional right to have your voice heard. Your vote does matter, and the only way we can continue in a direction of democracy is to actively participate in it. Early voting has started in some states, and begins 10 days before Election Day in Florida. Whether you get there early, send off an absentee, or stand in line on Tuesday, November 6th, please remember that if you don’t speak for yourself, someone else will speak for you.
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