I had the opportunity yesterday to meet with three African journalists at USF; a reporter from Sierra Leone, a reporter from South Africa, and another one from Rwanda. It was extremely interesting to hear their perspectives. In some of these countries, they said that they had freedom of speech, just not necessarily freedom after you speak. The Rwandan journalist said hed been in jail 8 times, and the woman from Sierra Leone talked about two fellow journalists in prison right now for saying something against their president. When asked what questions they had for us Americans, the Rwandan immediately jumped in with his question. For all the blood spilled everywhere, and people imprisoned who had fought so dearly for the chance to have a say in their own government, putting their lives and freedom on the line, it amazed him that anyone would ever just not vote and choose not to participate at all in their government. In his country, 99.1% of the people came out to vote at the last election. Someone pointed out the fact that many people feel like their votes dont matter, but he didnt buy it. With so low of voter turnout, if all those who didnt vote came out and spoke their mind, it could drastically affect their lives - especially in local elections. And if you feel like your vote doesnt matter, do what others around the world do - stand up and do something about it. When so many people go without the ability to participate in their government and continue to fight so hard for their voice to be heard, to see others squander it because they might not get their way (or just out of laziness) must seem like such an ungrateful slap in the face to these people. I felt particularly inclined to share this today, since today is the day of our local elections. Some countries fine their citizens with a penalty for not voting, pointing out that it is their civic duty to take part in the government that so directly affects much of their lives. I really hope that all of you appreciate your right to vote today. Yesterday reminded me of when my mom used to tell me to think about all the starving children in Africa when I didnt want to eat my green beans. Today, try to think about all the people in the world, and even the people in this country, who cant vote. Think of all the people who are in prison right now for speaking out against their government. Today is your day to have your voice heard. I understand feeling like your vote doesnt count in the presidential elections (I wont go there right now), but today you get to vote locally, in the decisions that directly affect you. And if the vote doesnt go your way today, or if youre a felon and you cant vote, then stand up and do something - anything. Just dont be one of those passive Im not gonna vote, but Ill post stuff on facebook people, as if that matters. Thats either ignorance, laziness, or both. If you cant be bothered to participate on this one day to take part in the way your own life is governed, then in reality, youve already denied yourself the opportunity to say anything about your own government any other day. Please, dont be fooled into thinking that facebook is a voting booth. People have given their lives for your personal right to vote. Give them the respect they deserve, respect those around you, and respect yourself - go vote. Think of all the starving children in Africa - and their parents who cant vote.
Posted on: Tue, 05 Nov 2013 14:20:48 +0000
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