Voting, it's one of the most beneficial aspects of being a resident of the United States of America, but unfortunately too many of us take it for granted. I myself am no stranger to being apathetic towards voting. Being raised in a non-politically engaged family, I did not grow up truly understanding it's importance. My first election as an 18-year-old new voter was the Gore/Bush Presidential election. I remember the confusion I had learning about the electoral college system and the frustrations I felt watching all the news coverage about dimpled chads. It was probably one of the more contentious national elections, until this year. For the years the followed I became more and more engaged and eventually I wasn't just voting, I began canvassing, phone banking, and ultimately even running for the seat I serve you in now. I have learned the importance of this sacred past time, a right that over the years was forbidden for slaves, Blacks, women, and to this day for some of those convicted through our justice system.

It baffles me and most of the world as to why our country lacks participation in such an important task. People have died in our country and people are still fighting and dying throughout the world to be provided the right to democratic elections. Knowing this, I make it a priority to educate and engage as many people as possible to participate in our democracy. In fact, one of the most special moments during my own campaign had nothing to do with winning. My father was a long time legal permanent resident who lacked the interest or motivation to complete his citizenship process. I remember starting my campaign and asking my father how could I believe I was going to convince thousands of people to vote for me if I couldn't even convince him the importance of voting in the first place. He was finally convinced and after fulfilling his citizenship, he voted for the first time in 2014. Fast-forward two years to this year, both he and my mom have signed up to be volunteer election officers. For over 12 hours on Election Day, my parents will be volunteering separately at different polling locations in San José, to make sure all who can, participate in this ever so important opportunity.

I couldn't be more proud of how far my parents have come. Like so many other families we may not have been as politically active as we should have, but we have learned the importance of this right. I hope each and everyone of you learn to appreciate and understand this importance, and are able to share with your friends and family and become more engaged as well.

Tomorrow don't miss your opportunity to help set the course of our collective futures, both nationally and locally. Go out and vote and drag a dozen others with you too!