My Right, My Duty, My Privilege

     In my last post, I put up a video called "The Ballot or the Bullet" and mentioned that I was excited to vote because I can. I want to expand on that.
     In one of his most famous speeches, Malcolm X explores the state of the nation and what he believes is necessary for the Black community to do in order to move forward. If you haven't heard it, listen to it. I don't care what race or political ideology you prescribe to- every American needs to be aware of the discussion posed by Malcolm X. Too many people are familiar with what they believe was the mentality of Dr. King. When Dr. King is discussed, he is discussed within the parameters of non-violence. While non-violence was a necessary aspect of Dr. King's message, there was a much deeper struggle being addressed that is too often ignored. Think about it: if Dr. King had a non-violent perspective, there had to be an opposing perspective. Most Americans are aware of the fact that Malcolm X was the "other." However, most believe that Malcolm X prescribed to a violent ideology. This is not true. As the title of the speech suggests, Malcolm X had a number of issues he wanted to be able to address through voting; however, if his vote was not heard, Malcolm X recognized that a gun would be a bit louder. Interestingly enough, many of the problems Malcolm X addresses in 1964 are very much still problems today.
     The existence of these issues is one of many reasons I feel it is so important to vote. If I do not treat an issue as important, how can I ever expect my representation to see it as important? I can't. My responsibility to my community and the world around me is what makes voting a duty.
     My ability to vote is what makes me excited. As an African American, I did not have the right to vote until 1870. As a woman, I did not have the right to vote until 1920. As easy it is to be angry about the years of discrimination anyone who has looked like me has endured for centuries, the fact remains: I CAN VOTE. A lot of change has had to happen in this country but change is constantly occurring. I am proud of the progress of my nation and would be doing myself and many others a disservice if I did not exercise my civic right, duty and privilege to vote.