Reference no: EM132433080

The United States is touted by many to be a democratic society in which citizens are empowered to participate in its governance -- either directly or through the election of public officials who represent the public interests. However, these political liberties are not guaranteed nor should be taken for granted. Many think it important that we monitor and participate through elections in our political system. Failure to do so, it can be argued, openly invites the erosion of free, democratic institutions. In this conference I want you to seriously consider voter apathy in America.

QUESTIONS:

Go online and research how vested Americans are in the political process. Why do you think we rank where we do globally?

Consider the role of ideologies in shaping our perspectives On the one hand we are told that we can achieve anything with hard work and determination (American Exceptionalism) and we also hear that "our vote can't and won't make a difference, the process is corrupt, delegates votes matter more, real change isn't possible, etc. How does such thinking influence voting?

Please research the recent repeal of Section D of the Voting Rights Act. Examine structural barriers such as disenfranchisement, gerrymandering, mandatory identification and "purge" programs by states, use of provisional ballots, voter ID restrictions, limits on early voting, proof of citizenship, and limiting the number of voting stations - do these structural barriers affect voting outcomes? What demographic is most affected and why?

Consider your own participation in the voting process. What has influenced your participation or discouraged you from voting?