Get OUT and vote because you can

Here in the United States more people would rather cast a vote for their next American Idol than elect a politician. But unless Clay Aiken's crooning can boost jobs and equalize LGBT people, then you may want to consider hitting the polls on Nov. 7.
You see, while everyone will feel the aftermath, the young adults' futures are particularly affected by who wins and who doesn't. Unfortunately, they are also the ones who shy away from the polls the most. About 36 percent of college students voted in 2000, according to CNN.
It's a two way street. Until youngsters care about who's elected as senator or governor, politicians will continue to ignore their concerns.
Young adults have become complacent to the fact that their one vote will matter. But how much did it affect them when Kelly Clarkson was named American Idol? These youngsters would rather sit at home and cast votes for their favorite Idol time and time again rather than consider deeper issues that will affect them for the next two-six years: the war in Iraq, gay marriage, education and jobs.
One-sixth of young adults ages 18-24 are unemployed and not enrolled in school, according to the Department of Labor. Isn't that reason enough to let your voice be heard?
"Oh, but my vote won't really matter" is a common defense for people who don't make an effort to go to the polls. But just imagine if everyone said that. There would be no voices. There would be no democracy. Spread the word. Post it on your blog. Send a message to friends on MySpace. Mass e-mail everyone in your address book. Shout it out on your rooftop (but be careful).
Get acquainted with the issues at hand with Between The Lines' Voter's Guide and make educated decision about whom you'll elect. We've endorsed equality-minded candidates, but we can't hold your hand and walk you into the polling booth. That's your job. Voting is our only way to stand up and say, "I won't stand for funding cuts in schools or a lack of protection for LGBT rights." And whether this will be your first time or your 50th, do your homework and make certain you won't regret your decision two years down the road.
Or you could head to work and forget about it all together. And then, when a candidate gets elected that doesn't support equal opportunities, you can bitch to your friends about how so and so is Bush's evil twin. But will you really have a place to do so?
Do the right thing. Use your voice. Vote.