The votes have come in and the people have made their voice heard in the general election, thanks to the freedom we have in our country to participate in the process of choosing the people who will lead us.
These days, politics seem to be more divisive than ever, with polarized positions, “us vs. them” mentalities, all-or-nothing stances, and a tendency to demonize anyone who doesn’t agree. However, there is one thing people on all sides of the political spectrum seem to agree on — the importance of voting.
The Star receives a number of letters to the editor from people representing various political points of view. Unfortunately we can’t always run all the letters we receive — usually just because there isn’t room in the paper for all of them. This year we received several regarding the election, from people all across the state.
What’s interesting is that many times people on different sides of the political spectrum use some of the same language.
Here are a few quotes from letters to the editor we received regarding this election:
“This year has shown just how much change is needed, but the change will not come without us showing up. You have the power to drive change. Pledge to vote for your values, and join us in this battle to protect our country.”
“Elected officials don’t have the final say when it comes to our rights – we do.”
“It should be up to us, the people, to determine how much power government has! Let’s inform ourselves! Then share what we learn with family, friends, neighbors, acquaintances and even strangers! Let’s re-examine our priorities and reset our intentions. And, most importantly, VOTE!!!”
“This election year you better do your homework . . . Get out and vote!”
From just these quotes, can you determine what party these writers belong to or what issues are important to them?
The first two quotes are from Antonio Serrano, the advocacy director of the ACLU of Wyoming — a nonpartisan organization with what many would consider to be liberal values.
The third quote is from Geri Maria Johnson from Cheyenne who talks in her letter about needing a paradigm shift to achieve the Founding Fathers’ vision.
The fourth quote is from Ben C. Barto from Dubois, who said in his letter that politics are no longer right vs. left, but good vs. evil, and parents and grandparents need to draw the line in the sand to prevent the indoctrination of children.
People on different sides of the political spectrum all have different reasons for feeling strongly about the need to vote. Some are concerned about saving the lives of babies being murdered, while others are concerned about protecting women’s healthcare rights. Some are worried about the indoctrination of children through what is taught in schools, while others want to protect the lives and mental health of LGBTQ children.
While everyone has different things they hope to accomplish with the impact of their vote, they equally recognize that voting can make a lasting difference. Determining who leads our government determines laws, policies and precedents that will be established, which can have real-world impact on our daily lives.
The important thing is everyone having the chance to make their voice heard, to vote for people they believe represent issues important to them, and to be a part of the democratic process.
This year, the election came just a few days before Veterans Day, when we honor those who’ve fought for our country. Having the events close together reminds us that people have fought for us to have the right to vote — from the veterans who fought to protect our nation to the people who fought inside of our country so all its citizens could share the same rights and freedoms.
As we reflect on the election, we recognize the importance and power of voting, and we are grateful for all those who fought to protect that crucial freedom.
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