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Sixteen-year-olds can drive, work a full-time job and get an adult passport...so remind us why they can't vote?

"Turning 16 is a rite of passage in our society—and voting should come along with that," argues Elina Graham, a high school senior. "How is it fair that we're affected by government decisions, yet we don't have a say?"

It's true—elections impact legislature, which then impacts the state of the roads you travel and the wages you earn (not to mention important issues like gun control, public education and reproductive rights that affect high school students each day).

Last year, the House of Representatives voted on a bill to lower the federal voting age from 18 to 16. Though it didn't pass, it was a step in the right direction. In California's Bay Area, students successfully added a charter amendment to the 2020 ballot that would allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in their school board electioins.

Research shows that voting is habit forming—the earlier someone starts voting, the more likely they'll continue to do it later. If you're passionate about getting the chance to check those boxes, start local and push your representatives to consider making a change. Because, the truth is, your voice—and your vote—matters.

Hey, girl! Just wanted to let you know that this interview originally ran in our October/November 2020 issue. Want more? Read the print mag for free *today* when you click HERE.

Image: instagram.com/julesleblanc

by Katherine Hammer | 10/28/2020