Rams register! Your votes matter

Jessica Holgado, Contributing Writer

It is frustrating to see so many eligible voters, especially students, sitting out during such an important election. With so much at stake, it is surprising that many have yet to even register. Why are so many people not participating in a country that prides itself on democracy?

With the upcoming election, it is more important than ever for students to understand the power and necessity of voter registration. It is not just a box to check; it is a way to make your voice heard on both local and national issues. 

I remember my experience registering to vote — it was a mix of excitement and frustration. It was my freshman year, and I was thrilled to finally have a say in shaping my community and future during the November 2022 general election. 

Voting for the first time was a bit scary, but I was lucky to have my roommate going through the same process with me. Even then, I still felt frustrated for those who were struggling with it.

Many students felt lost when it came to voter registration. They had questions about what documents were necessary, how to track important deadlines and where to find trustworthy information. It was hard to see so many capable and passionate individuals hesitate to register simply because the process seemed too complicated.

The challenges do not stop at registration. Many people go to great lengths to cast their votes. Some drive hours to reach their polling stations, while others even fly to their home state to ensure their vote is counted. These obstacles make it even harder for people to participate in the voting process, highlighting the need for more accessible and straightforward voting options.

This experience made it clear to me how many barriers still exist in our voting system. While I was eager to get involved, I could not help but worry about those who felt discouraged or excluded. I wanted to help my peers navigate the registration process so everyone could share in the excitement of making their voices heard.

It is disheartening to think students face unnecessary challenges just to register. The confusing paperwork and vague deadlines can make the whole process feel daunting. This makes it seem like the system is more interested in keeping people out than welcoming them in.

The history behind voter registration really stood out to me, as it follows this pattern of confusion. It was initially designed to make voting more difficult for low-income individuals, those with less education and immigrant citizens. 

This system aimed to keep certain groups from participating in democracy by introducing requirements like literacy tests, poll taxes and complicated registration processes. These requirements discouraged many from voting.

The legacy of voter suppression affects us today, as many of the same challenges still exist, making it harder for marginalized groups to vote. Recognizing this background is important because it shows why voter participation is not equal and highlights the ongoing struggle for fair access to the ballot. 

Because of these challenges, it is crucial for us to push through and make our votes count. We can impact local elections, shaping important issues like public transportation, housing and education. Our voices contribute to the larger democratic process, shaping the future of our country.

We should also celebrate progress that has been made. Community movements and dedicated individuals have worked hard to expand voting rights and make registration easier. We can keep that momentum going by staying informed and getting involved in efforts to improve voter access.

There are also many resources to help us navigate registration. Websites like Vote.org and the Virginia Department of Elections provide clear instructions and deadlines, and VCU also has student organizations dedicated to voter engagement. Organizations like VCU Votes Student Coalition and Young Democrats at VCU work to educate and mobilize students to participate in the electoral process. It is up to us to take advantage of these resources and ensure every Ram’s voice is heard.

Registering to vote is more than just a civic responsibility — it is a powerful statement of our commitment to democracy. Overcoming the obstacles that still exist today allows us to honor those who fought for our right to vote and paves the way for a more inclusive and representative future.

We can encourage our peers to get involved by sharing information about registration deadlines, hosting discussions about the importance of voting and even organizing events. The more we talk about it, the more likely others will feel empowered to participate.

Ultimately, we can make sure our votes count and inspire others to do the same. Every vote matters, and together, we can create a brighter future for all.