Op-ed: Why voting early is a great option for Gen Z Virginians

Brendan Smith, an intern at Dogwood, shares his thoughts on the option to vote before Election Day in Virginia.

With the calendar counting down to Nov. 5th, I cannot stress enough the importance of sharing your voice and voting in the 2024 presidential election. Early voting has already started in Virginia and beyond, so don’t let the excuse of not being able to vote on Election Day hold you back.

As a member of Gen Z, it’s vital that we remain open-minded about how these policies affect us now and in the future. It’s alarming that many of my peers hesitate to have children due to concerns over their rights. Personally, I want to ensure that if I bring a child into this world, their basic human rights are guaranteed.

Researching and educating ourselves on the policies in this election is crucial. Important issues like climate change, education, and healthcare will shape our lives and future. Remember, our voices matter, and when we vote, we can make a difference.

Let’s not just vote—let’s engage with our friends and family. Host discussions about candidates and their platforms or share informative resources on social media. A great place to start is Dogwood, which provides clear information about where candidates stand on key issues.

Consider taking it a step further by volunteering for a local campaign or even starting a social media challenge about why you’re voting. Together, we have the power to create meaningful change in our communities. Let’s make our voices heard this election!