American history shows ever-expanding opportunities for all citizens to participate in self-government.
When the Constitution was approved in 1788, only property-owning white men over 21 could vote, but by 1870, the 15th Amendment to the Constitution gave voting to men of all races. In Wyoming in 1869 and Colorado in 1893, women were first allowed to vote. In 1920, the 19th Amendment granted suffrage to all adult women. In 1924, the voting rights of Native Americans were granted. In 1971, the 26th Amendment lowered the voting age to 18.
Since people have struggled, gone to prison, and even died to win the right for citizens to participate in self-government, it is hard to understand why 60 percent of eligible voters fail to vote. Young voters and millennials: Would you like your grandparents to dictate what clothes you wear or what is on your playlist? Do you want only them to choose the people who make and execute our laws?
If your answer is no, seriously study the issues and candidates, think for yourself and fill our your ballot. Mail it back before Halloween or drop it off on Nov. 6 at our libraries. We are all links in the chain of American history. Voting is our right and our responsibility.
Constance Fox
Mancos