The Importance of Being an Engaged Citizen

Last Wednesday, September 26, the nation marked an important moment for our democracy: National Voter Registration Day. Established in 2012 to encourage the millions of Americans who aren’t registered to vote to exercise their right, over 750,000 people across all 50 states have registered to vote on National Voter Registration Day since its inception. Voting is essential to keeping our democracy strong and ensuring that our elected officials are serving the needs of the American people, but it’s also a critical reminder of the importance of being an engaged and informed citizen. With Election Day (November 6) right around the corner, now is the time to get involved—and stay involved —in the governmental process.

5 Ways to Be an Engaged Citizen

1. Register to vote. The deadline to register to vote varies by state, however, the maximum deadline is usually 30 days before Election Day. If you’re not sure if you’re registered to vote, check here. If you still need to register, check here for your state’s deadline. Every vote counts, so make sure you’re registered!
2. Go vote and create a carpool to help friends, family, and neighbors get to the polls on Election Day. The first step to voting is ensuring you’re registered, but the second step is getting to the polls and exercising your right! Establish a carpool group to assist neighbors who may not have a means of transportation to get to the polls.
3. Be an informed citizen. Attending townhalls, debates, and community events with elected officials and candidates for office is a great way to hear their views or to share your questions and concerns with those elected, or running, to represent you.
4. Join a campaign. You can actively participate in the election process by joining the campaign of a candidate for office. A great way to raise awareness about Election Day and encourage friends and neighbors to vote is to knock on doors, make phone calls, and volunteer on a candidate’s campaign.
5. Contact your representative and ask them to fix Congress. It’s easier than ever to reach your member of Congress. Send an email or tweet to your member of Congress asking for a new committee that will fix Congress!