Letter to the editor: Exchange your beer for a ballot

Dear editor,

In the wake of another 9/11 anniversary, throughout UVM and college campuses nationwide, students wanted to show their appreciation for the country we live in and freedom we pride ourselves on. With the flag flying at half-mast, out came the ‘Murica’ themed parties and Tweets with emoticon flags.

Even in a time when raging might be your biggest priority and refraining from using social media would feel like a death sentence, if you truly love America, you will put down the beer and iPhone, and take a moment to register to vote.

People need to stop thinking of voting as an option, and realize it is your civic duty to the country and the heroes that keep it safe.

A democracy is a beautiful thing if the people are willing to take the responsibility of choosing the future American discourse. If you love this nation and the opportunities it has given you, give something back to the country — your advice on what direction it should go in next.

By selecting a candidate and 

being informed on their stances, you are essentially choosing what progress should be made on pivotal issues such as marriage, education, the environment and tax cuts.

Even with efforts from pop-culture icons like MTV and Jay-Z in the 2008 presidential election, only 48.5 percent of 18 to 24-year-olds voted, according to census.gov, the lowest amount out of any age bracket. The booths should be full of spry, young people who will be affected by the decision for years and years to come.

The Usa.gov website has all the information you need about registering to vote, and it’s simpler than when your Facebook switched to timeline. Depending on the state, you need to register around 30 days or fewer before the election, which is Nov. 6.

So, rather than spending money on one of Total Frat Move’s “patriotic” tanks or koozies, spend a few minutes supporting your country in a way where it will reap the benefits.

        Sincerely,

        Emily Mack

        Class of 2016