Chic: “fashionable and sophisticated”. So many young adults are focused on growing up, looking classy, or being seen as chic. But true sophistication starts from within, not by wearing an overpriced top with a thin scarf.
Voting is the foundation of a democracy — not because it’s a tired slogan repeated since the dawn of time, but because it’s true. A democracy cannot exist without its citizens actively exercising their right to vote and choosing their representation.
In Australia, there’s a $20 fine for not voting. In Greece, a law requiring imprisonment for a month or up to a year. Unfortunately, the U.S. doesn’t even offer an incentive or any structural support at all to make voting easier — like designating Election Day as a national holiday.
That means it’s up to the citizens themselves to participate in a principle this country was founded upon.
Far too many people opt out, believing they can live unaffected by politics. But that’s impossible — politics is woven into every fiber of this country. To live without it is to exist in an unstable society, and while the state of the union may feel that chaotic, we’re not that far gone just yet…
Convincing yourself that you don’t have a political opinion, claiming to be ‘centrist’ or deciding that voting is irrelevant to your life is essentially allowing others — those who do vote — to decide your fate.
How often do you encounter an extreme or eccentric person? Probably at least once a day.
How much do you want to bet they vote?
It’s great to be unique, but political representation should reflect the whole of the population — not just the loud or extreme voices. Whatever your beliefs, abstaining from voting is never the answer. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to exercise your right.
Only 63.9% of eligible voters voted in the 2024 presidential election. Congress has yet to pass a law requiring citizens to vote — likely because most Americans lean toward Democrat or center-left policies, which are considered moderate or even right-leaning in other countries.
If that makes you feel proud to be a down-low Democrat — go vote.
If that makes you mad because you’re a Republican at heart — go vote.
And don’t forget about midterms — they happen every two years, and they matter just as much!
Stop obsessing over the latest skincare routine or the next fast-fashion drop.
Start committing to your duty as an 18+ year-old.
The best way to be chic and grown? Vote.
