Governor Bill AnoatubbyVoting gives wings to your voice; honors your ancestors
Thriving democracies are characterized by an engaged and dynamic citizenry. Voting by citizens is critical. When voting participation shrinks, it can often be a sign of decline within the democracy itself.
It is imperative that we, as active citizens, take the time to become informed on the key issues – then vote. Minus that scenario, the rights and privileges we enjoy as Americans, and as Chickasaws, are whittled away.
An election is conducted each summer to choose tribal legislators and judges. Legislators and judges are elected to three-year terms, assuring an annual election. The Governor/Lt. Governor teams are elected to four-year terms. The next gubernatorial election will be in 2015.
Of course, there are also state and local elections each year, all of which are important.
This year, 2012, is a presidential election year. A presidential year normally signals a higher-than-average voter turnout. However, average voter turnout in presidential elections since 1960 is just 55.37%. In the 19th Century, from 1840 to 1900, presidential turnout averaged about 75%.
In America today, many potential voters say they are either too busy to vote, or that their vote really doesn't matter. In the first instance, we each must make voting a priority plus, voting in America is easy! Your polling place is going to be your home, and you can choose to vote absentee prior to the election. We are very fortunate in this country. In many countries, voters must travel long distances and stand in line for hours to cast ballots.
In the second case, your vote really does matter! There are many examples of candidates winning or losing by just a handful of votes.
Your vote is so critically important to your tribe, your country and your family. When you cast your ballot, you are choosing not just a person, but also his or her policies and plans for tribe or country.
If you are 18 and not yet a registered voter, it is simple both through the tribe and through your local government.
When registering with the tribe, you can call, email or send a letter to the tribal election office. You will receive your form in the mail that you will complete and return. You can also now go online, print the registration form, complete it and mail it in.
You must register no later than July 10 to be eligible for this year's tribal elections.
In your local area you may register at your county election office, or you may register at one of the many voter registration booths that normally appear in public areas in advance of presidential elections.
It is important to know that different states have different rules regarding when you must sign up to be eligible to vote. In Oklahoma, you must register at least 25 days prior to the election to be eligible. This year's presidential election is Nov. 1.
You should know states also have different voter identification laws. Most states accept non-photo identification for voters.
The main thing to remember is – your vote counts! I cannot emphasize enough the importance of your participation as a tribal and American citizen. You are leading your tribe and country when you vote.
Don't let another day go by. Register today!
