September / October 2004
Volume 22, Number 5

I want all young adults, whether you have Down syndrome or not, to know how important it is to vote in this country! Voting is a privilege and a right as told to us also in the First Amendment!

There are four rights to our First Amendment: Freedom of Speech; Freedom of Religion; Freedom to Assemble; and the Right to Vote. So, the reason why I’m writing this article is because I want young adults to be aware of and alert to their world, and to know that their vote can make a difference. I want to encourage all people who have Down syndrome to keep opportunities open for people like us, and they can do this by staying informed and voting. Stay involved within their community; watch the news; and interact with other people.

When you vote, you need to be 21 years old! Election Day falls on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November. When you are registered to vote, you need to think about who you want to vote for and why. Many people will take sides and voice their opinion. It is important to know what you are voting for when you vote and who believes in what you want, too. If you like what a candidate says about things you care about, then you can vote for that person. Look, read, and understand as you choose to vote. Know that you are supporting our country and community. We are U.S. citizens and we have the right to vote.

- Brianne (Brie) Nobis is a self-advocate and an Aim High Board member