The United States Midterm Elections are around the corner (November 6th). Here's a few important reasons why you should vote this year.

5. This path was paved for you. Don’t take it for granted.

Regardless of political affiliations, beliefs, or backgrounds, this is something that everyone needs to recognize: your right to vote hasn’t always existed. Regardless of gender, race, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, or ability, generations before us fought to ensure that we could have a voice and participate in politics and government. This is your chance to prove that their efforts weren’t for nothing. By voting, we not only exercise our responsibilities as citizens, but we also validate and legitimize the efforts of the generations before us. So it doesn’t matter who you’re going to vote for on November 6th, as long as you get to the polls and cast your vote.

4. If not now, when? And if not us, then who?

There has never been a better time to be 18. If you are of voting age, you must seize this opportunity before it’s too late. Do not wait until the “big elections” like the Presidential race—mid-term elections are just as important. Don’t expect others to do the work for you. Your vote is just as important as the next person’s.

3. It’s our future, and it’s in our hands.

We hear it time and time again, “young people don’t vote.” The sad thing about this recurring statement is that it’s true. Statistically, the youth are far less likely than any other age group to go to the polls. This November, let’s change that. Let’s flood the polls and make our voices heard. We make up a huge portion of the population and should be represented appropriately in the results. Who knows, maybe we’ll be the deciding factor in some of the closest elections. Don’t be discouraged by the stigma around young people voting. Text your friends and get out there. The future is in our hands.

2. Be a part of history.

Too often, we see or hear people complaining about the current state of an issue, about a particular elected official, or about politics in general. Instead of posting a Tweet or arguing with a neighbor, get to the polls and express your opinions in the voting booth. This upcoming election gives every person of voting age the chance to make a difference. By voting, you will forever be a part of history.

1. It is easier than ever to vote.

There are so many resources available to help you get involved this year. Here are a few:

If you can vote:
• Uber and Lyft are offering free and/or discounted rides to the polls on November 6th.
• Voter ID, registration, and general information by state can be found here.
• BallotReady, a nonpartisan organization, provides information about your state or district candidates.
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If you aren’t of voting age yet:
• DoSomething.org allows you to find ways to give back or take a stand on issues that are important to you in ways other than voting.
• Get in touch with your representatives.
• Spread the word! Flood social media, tell all your friends, and do everything you can to increase local political participation, even if you aren’t the one voting.

AZA & BBG—it’s our turn. Get out the vote!