“Have you registered to vote? In Amherst?” These seem to be the only two questions that have fallen on every pair of ears on campus. Not just once or twice, but repeatedly I have been asked by tens of different faces whether or not I have registered to vote…in Amherst. As a matter of fact, I am registered to vote (although in my hometown and not in Amherst). I’m expecting my absentee ballot to come in the mail any day now. However, as I await the arrival of this very important document, I can’t help but think: should I even vote?

Before assumptions are made, let me explain myself. I’m not one of those people who questions whether or not I should vote because I’m unsure if my vote will even count. I am fully aware that each vote matters. My hesitation comes from what I currently know about the potential candidates…which is absolutely nothing. As an uninformed voter, should I vote?

As I sat down to write this blog, I was completely unsure of where I stood on this issue. On the one hand, I know that voting is one of the most critical responsibilities we have as citizens of this nation. However, if I am unaware on where the candidates stand on important issues, I could end up voting for a potential dictator, or someone who will reverse all the progress America has made thus far.

So what exactly is the solution to this “to vote or not to vote” dilemma? I asked around and got a mix of answers ranging from a definite yes or no, to responses like, “how uninformed?”. While each individual is entitled to his or her opinion, here’s the resolution I eventually came to: everyone eligible to vote should most definitely, without a doubt vote. Voting is, first and foremost, a right and it is a right that people fought for years to earn. Not only did people fight to earn this right, but people died over this cause. It is horrifying to think that something people once fought and died for is now being brushed aside and thought of as more of a chore than a privilege.

In regard to the issue of being an uninformed voter, it’s simple, don’t be uniformed. There is no excuse for not taking 15 minutes out of your day to go onto your computer and look up some facts about the candidates. Whether you understand their entire histories, or their stance on just one or two issues that you deem to be important, anything is better than going into the polls completely clueless. If the Internet is too much work, then find a friend who understands politics, have them give you a five-sentence summary on each of the candidates, and pick the one that you would rather identify with. The bottom line is, if you are eligible to vote and are uninformed, become informed. Do not waste this opportunity that people fought for you to have; make the future better for yourself and those around you. Vote…in Amherst (or in your hometown).

Ali Strand can be reached for comment at [email protected].