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Remember to cast your vote on November 10.
Do you know what the single most powerful thing is that you can do as an American citizen?
Vote.
Do you know what the single most powerful thing is that you can do for Tulsa?
Vote on Nov. 10!
The upcoming mayoral election is our vehicle to voice our wants and needs for Tulsa’s future. Next month, every registered voter in the city has the opportunity, the right and the freedom to express his or her opinion of who should be the next elected leaders in Tulsa.
Who will vote on that day? In the past, data has reflected that only more mature demographics vote. That is no longer fact. At age 18, we register. In our 20s and 30s, we make up the demographic majority. However, some believe that the young professional demographic does not/will not vote. “Some” are wrong. Actually, young professionals are changing the face of politics today.
• Young professionals today are part of the largest generation in history.
• We represent more than one-fifth of the electorate.
• Young professionals are the most diverse generational group.
• By 2012, we will account for one-third of the electorate.
• Young professionals are the most socially engaged and politically informed generational group.
As stated in a previous blog, “The last presidential election, more young people voted since the general election of 1972 — the first after the voting age was lowered to 18. There was a surge of volunteers speaking the political platforms and going door to door to influence people to vote for their candidate.”
The largest informational influence on young professionals today is carried by social media. Politicians and pundits have used vehicles such as Facebook, MySpace and Twitter to capture a whole new audience. The effect is powerful. Their messages are captured, seen and sent out over and over again with the hope of changing minds or swaying a vote.
Americans are more aware than ever of what is or is not happening in our country. We are using our freedom to voice our opinion through public forums in person and online, and we pay attention to what others are saying. Is this enough to inspire us all to exercise democracy?
Research who will be on next month’s ballot and make an educated decision as to who you believe will make a great leader for our city. Each candidate has information online along with many other available resources.
Tulsa needs your motivation. It needs your voice. Cast your vote on Nov. 10. But don’t stop there. Remind your friends and family. Tell your co-workers. Post it on your Facebook profile. Send out a “tweet.”
Go to the polls. Vote. Get your sticker that reads “I Voted” and wear it proudly. Tape a sticky note under it and write, “Have you?”
Chelsea M.E. Harkins is the director of economic development for the City of Owasso and crew leader for TYPros’ Government Relations Crew. She has been involved in government and lobbying activities for more than 10 years. Harkins is a wellness enthusiast, fitness coach and an avid runner. She resides in Owasso with her husband, daughter, dog and cat.
