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“Politics ought to be the part-time profession of every citizen who would protect the rights and privileges of free men.”
– President Dwight D. Eisenhower
Whether you’re young or old, the choices of our government will affect us all. As an American citizen, your actions can play a role in influencing your government. While it may feel hopeless trying to reach the national government, you can still play a role at the local scale.
Here are 10 ways to become a more politically active citizen:
1. Subscribe to a newspaper or publication. The first step to becoming a politically active citizen is becoming a politically aware citizen. Educate yourself on current politics or even brush up on old U.S. history.
2. Meet a bipartisan group of friends for lunch. As simple as it may be, talking with others of varying opinions can create healthy discussion. It’s important to listen to dissenting opinions and respectfully discuss these differences. Keeping an open mind allows the opportunity to explore new options and ultimately become a more educated citizen.
3. Volunteer in places that can help your community. By taking time out of your day to do good for the community, you can make a difference. Try volunteering at places in Pleasanton such as the Alviso Adobe, Firehouse Arts Center, Senior Center or any animal rescue centers.
4. Contact your representative. Have complaints about the functioning of your government? Call or schedule a meeting with your district representative to discuss your thoughts and concerns.
5. Join a march. Many movements host marches to promote their organization or the rights of a group. Peacefully share your political views by actively participating in these fun marches. As a bonus, you can make fun signs too.
6. Write. Express your political views in writing. Create a blog where you can write about a topic or problem you see today.
7. Join an organization or group. Whether it be creating a new school club or becoming a member of the Parent-Teacher Association, opportunities like these allow people of all ages to participate in the community.
8. Help with a campaign. When election season comes around, assisting candidates with their election process provides great political experience and a look into what it takes to be a politician.
9. Vote. While it may seem obvious to mention, many citizens may forget to vote in their local-level elections. Choose a candidate who will represent your beliefs and make the change you hope for at your city level.
10. Educate the youth. Since children are the future of America, it’s important that they learn about their country from a young age. If you have kids, try taking them to history museums and teaching what it means to be an active citizen.
Editor’s note: Chloe Wohlenberg, Katelyn Antilla and Emilia Janda are seniors at Foothill High School. They wrote this article as part of a senior project about the importance of residents being civically active.
Thank you for sharing. It is important to get involved in your community and follow the votes of your elected officials.