TO THE EDITOR:
By now, students may have noticed the Get-Out-The-Vote efforts on campus. While some may ignore these initiatives, it is ultimately important for us to recognize the significance of registering and voting in Orange County this November.
Voters in our 18-22 age group are commonly portrayed as apathetic toward American politics, and with such frequently low levels of voter turnout our voice is relatively silent in government compared to any other age group. However, in 2008 we stood against that stereotype and brought about the most dramatic increase in youth participation of the last 30 years. We can all agree that these trends should continue. Voting is our innate civic duty and if we do not push for our perspectives to be counted, no one else will.
If you are not already registered to vote, registration will take place in the Pit from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday. It takes just two minutes!
You should also register in Orange County, using your UNC address. This makes voting super convenient by allowing you to vote on campus. Most importantly, registering here gives you a say in local and state elections, offices which have more dramatic impacts on our daily lives than even national elections. This fall, make sure you are part of the youth movement to be heard in America.
Amit Rao
Junior
Co-Director, Campaign Committee for Young Democrats