It's Time to Talk About Non-Voters, and Take Action

I’m not talking about people who could’ve voted but didn’t. I am talking about the disenfranchised fabric of our nation.

I am talking about illegal residents. They pay taxes, but cannot vote.

I am talking about children. They rely on the government for education, food, health and human services, and so much more. They cannot fend for themselves and they cannot vote.

I am talking about victims of gun violence and suicide. The voices and votes of the people fatally affected is lost forever.

I am talking about victims of hate crimes. I am talking about criminals, whether convicted rightfully or wrongfully. I am talking about people who cannot access democracy because they are sick or disabled. They cannot vote.

Voting for self-interest is one thing. It has been too long since people were willing to vote, fight, or risk their lives for people more vulnerable than themselves. This election has taught us that, yes, we must vote — and that is not enough.