For years, the apathy problem with regard to government in this country has been getting worse and worse. Political activity among all adults has dropped significantly in the past few years, but most striking is the drop in the 18 to 24 year-old age group. At present 15 percent of the American population falls into this category, and only half are registered to vote. If this continues, in just a few short years only seven percent of the middle-aged population will be registered. Just consider the ramifications of that.
How many of you disagree with any law that is enforced here in Troy, or in your hometowns, be it a local, state, or federal law? Did you do anything to change it? The United States is supposed to be a government of the people, for the people, by the people, but the only way that can be done is if the people voice their opinions. A recently conducted poll concluded that half of the American population believes that President Bush has not adequately shown cause for attacking Iraq, but how many of them do you think are actively protesting this? Merely tens of thousands, if that, out of 150 million.
Let’s bring the issue closer to home. In 1972, the voting age was lowered from 21 to 18, and in a few short years 29 states had lowered their drinking age to 18. Coincidence? I think not. That was the result of politically active youth that found an issue they cared about and did something about it. How many of you reading this are under the age of 21 and have consumed alcohol? How many 18-20 year-olds nationwide do you think drink on a regular basis? What would happen if every one of them collectively voiced their demand for a drinking age of 18—27 million people all at once? There could only be one answer.
How many of you out there think George Bush’s policies are flushing this country down the toilet? I know I do. But the only way he can do that is if people just talk and don’t act. Find something you believe in and stand up for it. Writing a short e-mail to a congressperson takes less than five minutes, and maybe you can make a difference.
