Choose Wisely

Electoral abstention, commonly known as not voting, might be considered a feasible choice for Black individuals under some situations. Although voting is commonly regarded as an essential civic obligation and a method to shape government policy, there are persuasive reasons that refraining from voting can also serve as a form of political assertion, especially for Black Americans. One compelling rationale for regarding abstaining from voting as a feasible alternative is the enduring absence of significant transformation despite active involvement.

 Take Milwaukee, Wisconsin as an example.

 A significant number of Black voters consistently endorse candidates and political parties who pledge advancements in racial justice, economic parity, and social changes. Nevertheless, the results frequently fail to meet expectations, resulting in dissatisfaction and doubt over the effectiveness of the democratic process. This disillusionment is intensified by problems such as gerrymandering, voter suppression, and the pervasive influence of money in politics, all of which have the potential to diminish the effectiveness of individuals' votes.

Furthermore, refraining from voting functions as a potent political declaration. It can accentuate the discontentment with the existing political system and the candidates it generates. Through a collective decision to abstain from voting, Black communities may highlight the necessity for profound transformations rather than superficial and gradual improvements. Engaging in this type of protest can exert significant pressure on political leaders and parties, compelling them to confront the fundamental factors contributing to inequality and injustice with greater sincerity.

Furthermore, abstaining from voting might shift attention and resources towards alternative modes of political participation and advocacy. Engaging in grassroots organization, fostering community development, and taking direct action frequently leads to more prompt and concrete outcomes compared to relying on electoral processes for change. Through the allocation of resources to local projects and activities, Black communities can cultivate influence and bring about transformation according to their own preferences and conditions. Only then will your vote have meaning.

Tell politicians what you want. Demand what you want. I believe, only then, will your vote matter. Disregard people hollering that you must vote because people died for you to have the right. This is true, yet transferring your power through the vote without asking for a deposit is like putting your money in a bank account that fails to give interest. The bank loans your money to others and reaps a reward and gives you nothing. It is similar to voting for a politician who reaps the reward of salary and power and gives back nothing.

Let the politician know a return is expected; a return is necessary. Again, although voting continues to be a crucial means of political engagement, abstaining from voting can also be a feasible choice for Black individuals in certain situations. A lack of voting in the Black community may be an outcome of voting and not seeing a return. Not voting functions as a means of expressing dissatisfaction with a politician who frequently falls short in fulfilling its commitments and can promote alternative methods of involvement that may be more successful in attaining justice and fairness. Tell the politician what you want. If there is no return, get rid of them. Either way, voting or not voting is a matter of choice.

Choose wisely.