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It's finally arrived: Today is Election Day! Voting is important every single year, ofc, but with women's rights, environmental safety, gun control and other vital issues on the table in 2024's presidential election, now's the moment for you, your family and your besties to hit the polls. 

Too young to actually vote? Here are some other ways you can get involved today.

Whether you're casting a ballot yourself or reminding everyone in your orbit (think: parents, relatives, teachers, coaches, etc.) to make a voting plan, you're doing your part to participate in our democracy. Remember, we are our country's future—let's protect it!

Still not convinced? Here are three major reasons to vote (and urge others to do it, too!).

1. You can make your voice heard.

Voting is an effective way to hold U.S. leaders—whether that's the President, your Senator(s) or local city council members—accountable for their actions. Your choice to support a particular candidate, no matter the race, makes sure that those in power are responsive to the needs of the people in their community and keep the promises they make on the campaign trail (otherwise, they won't earn your vote when it comes time to run for reelection!). 

Plus, voting is important because it is unique to you as a citizen. It's our chance as Americans to gather together and decide what (and who!) is best for our country. Today's challenge: Make one out-of-the-ordinary effort to promote the vote. That could mean creating posters and hanging them at your town hall or civic center, reposting a graphic on social media or giving out info about local polling places. 

@kamalaharris

2. Your daily life will be impacted. 

If you're passionate about a particular cause (like access to affordable healthcare for all, environmental justice or reproductive rights), voting gives you a direct say in how these issues will be approached by our officials. It might not always feel like it, but policies instituted by your city government, state legislatures and, yes, even the President in Washington, D.C. can and will show up in your life on the daily. 

So if you want better options for mental health care? Speak out for candidates who prioritize social programs like accessible counseling for all. Nervous about high college tuition? Back those fighting for affordable education. Think of your vote (plus the votes of your fam and friends!) as a powerful tool to push for the changes that matter most to you and your generation.

@elisadoesstuff

3. Every vote matters.

This election could prove to be one of the most significant turning points in our country, and because of that, the stakes couldn't be higher. Current poll experts are predicting that this year's race for the presidency might be an ultra-close one. That means every single vote matters when it comes time for the final count—including yours! 

Tag us in your voting pics on IG @girlslifemag! 

Slider image: @lilyjcollins

by Lauren Levesque and Madelon Basil | 11/5/2024