Voting Changed My Life And Every Millennial Woman Should Do It

Voting is an honor to me. It’s something I looked forward to for many years, so in 2008 when my opportunity presented itself I wasted no time getting my family together and standing in line for two hours to cast my ballot. Never did I think I’d live to see a Black president, so that night when all tallies were scored, I sat at the edge of my mom’s bed and cried like a baby.

My tears were shed for history– my ancestors who never were able to vote, and all of Obama’s predecessors who walked so he could run. That election changed my entire perspective and showed me how powerful my vote was.

That election was the catalyst for my dedication to voting and my will to encourage those around me. As a registered voter, I feel obligated to engage the youth and educate them.

According to Statista, “In the upcoming 2024 presidential election, Gen Z and millennial voters will make up around 48.5 percent of eligible voters in the country.” This percentage carries a massive weight and holds a dynamic place in the election as we face life-changing issues such as reproductive rights, taxes, gun laws, cost of living, as well as LGBTQ+ rights.

It is more imperative now than ever for millennials to vote as if their lives depend on it, as it does. Do your research and cast your vote based on what makes sense for your lifestyle. Ask yourself, how do I feel about the government telling me if I can or can’t have an abortion? Or how will America decline due to no gun restrictions?

The year 2008 was a scary time for an election. We were dealing with “the great recession“, our nation’s dependency on oil, and the National security and foreign affairs issue in regards to deciding to attack Iraq.If you ask me, the issues of taxes, abortion rights, and healthcare are still unsolved matters that we face 16 years later. Are we in limbo or helplessly floating in the abyss?

Registering to vote for me was significant because I come from a long line of teachers. I’d be remiss not to vote when my great-grandmother, who taught white children for over 20 years, couldn’t. I am also setting the tone for my six nieces and nephews, who sometimes come to me before their parents.

Higher Heights for America PAC states that 96% of Black women voted for Obama in 2008 and 2012, providing the margin he needed to win two presidential terms. These statistics show that Black women are implementing change by showing up in great numbers, and millennials play a part in that percentage.It is also noted that 90% of Black women voted for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in 2020 securing the administration’s win.

Black millennial women are being heard by using their civic right to vote. This, to me, is powerful because voting is a sacred experience. In terms of ancestry, the 19th Amendment granted us an opportunity that should be exercised and cherished. The numbers matter, and the numbers don’t lie.

Poet Nikki Giovanni told Her Agenda, “Voting is an act of protest and an integral component of our continued prosperity in America,”. Our ancestors didn’t bleed to exist with white people. They bled to protect other Black people. We don’t vote to fit in with white Americans. We vote to advance the lives of Black Americans. We vote to foster an environment where Black people can Be. “We have to remember who we love, and who loves us.”

Understanding the history of voting for Black marginalized individuals is the key element in this election for me. I don’t believe there is a choicenot to vote if you’re Black and a woman. It’s a right and a duty.

As millennial women, all of must show up and do what is expected of us, for our ancestors and the youth. Registering to vote and educating yourself on voting rights are all a part of the process. This election when you go to vote, make your voice heard the loudest by silently casting your ballot.

While some voter registration deadlines have passed, others have not. For more information about voter registration and voting on Election Day in your state, visit USA.gov or RockTheVote.org.