An election is the process of electing members of political body or person. In elections in the United States we mostly vote for people who are going to represent us in the government. This could be in a wide variety of positions, but usually we vote for someone who we think is going to vote and work for issues we find important. People who think like us. This way our opinion and viewpoint is represented in the government.
Elections can be complicated things, especially when you are talking about a nationwide election like the president. Candidates have large teams of people working for them who try to convince voters to vote for them. They use statistics and polls to determine what people like and try to say and do the right things to get elected. Candidates run ads on TV, hand out buttons, give speeches, and have debates to let people know why they will be the best person for the job.
Some times were even voting for certain amendments, rights and laws. (As we are this year, amendment one)
So, is voting and elections really important?
YES!!!! It's important that each person vote and get their voice to be heard. Even though it may seem to not make a difference as your vote is one in millions, it's important that each citizen cast their vote. This is important for democracy and for our country that people get to have their say and place their votes.
So what does this have to do with our lagoons problems?
The election plays a huge role, if not the largest most important part when demanding change. As state above, it is our right to believe and fight for all different causes. Some may fight for children's rights, some people may fight for firefighters, some people may fight for animals. It is our right as an American to speak up when certain things bother us. The River Kidz are known to stand up and sometimes talk to candidates, elected politicians and even government agency about what is bothering them.
As adults, many of us are registered voters to specific political parties based on our beliefs, Republicans, Democrats and Independents. There are a few others out there as well but, these are the biggest of the parties. Some people will vote for their own political party, others may venture out and vote for who has done things that they saw important issues. As many of you know, the internet is a very powerful source, were able to find all sorts of information on it. Its important we follow and do out research on candidate, especially if there are issues that you find very important.
Sadly, our problems here will NOT get fixed with out the politicians. While many of us see this as a human and animal crisis, it is very much a political problem. We have had some very good politicians and candidates help us along the way in this fight, those are the guys we want to cheer on and thank. Just like we do with our moms, dads, brothers, sisters, friends and even strangers at times, we want to thank those for helping us thus this far, even if that comes in the form of a vote.
One thing that is truly important and to always remember, when fighting for a cause, any cause, it shouldn't matter what political party you are. That cause is important to you for a reason and ALWAYS stand up and speak up when you feel its necessary, never let fear over come you. You tell your parents when you don't feel good, tell them when certain things are bothering you, such as what were facing here with our rivers, oceans and lagoon. You too have that right!
With the election coming up, were encouraging you parentz to take your River Kidz with you. Let them get a feel for the election. Here are some fun activities for your River Kidz in preparation for November:
Kidz Voters Registration Cards: here
Kidz "I Voted" templates for printing stickers: here
Kidz mock election ballot (make your own): here
Remember,
YOUR VOICE MATTERS MORE THEN THE ADULTS VOICE DO!