Letter to the editor: Our duty to vote

I recently discovered I would not be home for the Nov. 3 election. Having never missed a presidential election, I was concerned as to my voting options.

I then learned that Allegheny County had given voters more options to vote early. During the month of October, locations would be provided so people could partake in over-the-counter voting or return their voting ballots to a secure place. Fortunately, the Boyce Park Four Seasons Lodge location was convenient for me.

As I entered Boyce Park, the line of cars extended almost to the street entrance. As I approached the front door, I was greeted by a personable woman who informed me I could register and cast my ballot the same day. The location was well staffed and very efficient. After going through the process, I was able to cast my vote with confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

It has been said that this presidential election is the most important election of our time. I believe this to be true. In this election, people will not simply be voting for a person, they will be voting for civility. We have never been more divided, and, as a nation, we cannot allow that to continue.

We have fought hard for the right to vote. In George Washington’s time, only white men who were landowners could vote. During Reconstruction after the Civil War the 15th amendment was passed that ensured men could not be denied the right to vote because of their race.

Women fought for the right to vote and, with the passage of the 19th amendment, earned that privilege. In 1965 protest marches in Selma, Ala., were held to overturn certain voter suppression practices. Our nation’s story continues granting us the right, the privilege and the duty to vote.

In a recent Pew report people were asked with the upcoming election if they were hopeful or fearful. The majority said fearful. The stakes in this election could not be higher with the pandemic, downward economy, climate change, race relations, gender equality and more. We will be fighting for the integrity of our democracy in this election.

Voting is our voice for change. We cannot just imagine a better future; we must fight for it. It is time to remember who we are as a people and the values we embrace. A return to community, respect and dignity is my hope.

What is best about us is still there, so I encourage everyone to get out and vote. This is about making the world better for future generations.

Mark Boles

Monroeville