To the Editor:
Everyone knows that voting day is almost here. Every vote is a voice. And when women vote, they change the conversation. Some of you may have read or heard that voting rights protections are under attack. Women may still face barriers that make it harder to have their voices heard.
In addition, you may have heard some bantering in the “sound bites” that democracy is at stake. At the highest level of the definition, democracy is a “system of government in which supreme power is vested in the people and exercised directly by citizens or indirectly through a system of elected representatives.” Our system is a representative democracy, where “citizens elect public officials through regular, free and fair elections to make laws and govern on their behalf.” Your representatives, whether at local, state or federal levels, should be guided by your wishes, and the values that matter to you. Maybe these values include protecting our water, our food, our education systems and our healthcare, and I am sure there are many others, especially those that involve our children.
As citizens we should ensure that we maintain our democracy, where every voter is heard, every community is counted, and every woman has the power to shape our future.
Here are some trusted tools and information, not only for women, but all residents to utilize. After all, everyone needs to participate, to vote their values.
Access the website vote411.org (your library can help here if you don’t have a computer). At this website, with just your address, you will find the ability to:
- Check your voter registration status.
- See what is on your ballot.
- Find your voting polling place location.
Your voice and your vote do matter. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. So vote, bring your photo ID, bring a friend. Vote early and in person.
Donna MarchettiSurf CityOctober 28, 2026
