It seems like during every election you here candidates encouraging people to "get out there and vote, " as people seem unsure now more than ever what to think of leadership as politics has become more contentious than ever. Tragedies and economic challenges people are facing feel like they are no longer issues that opposing candidates address with solutions, but instead by pointing fingers. Tonight, though I was lucky enough to meet with Zero Waste McMinnville to share about myself as a candidate, but even more so to learn about a group working to inspire change. Sitting in a room of adults going thru the formal process of a business meeting sat two young ladies from Duniway Middle School. I watched as they took notes and paid attention to what was being said, engaged until it was their turn to present. They presented about what they were currently working on and challenges they faced and responded to by putting together a petition that they had other students sign to support their cause. After the meeting a mom of one of the young ladies introduced herself and shared that her daughter was passionate about leadership and making a difference. I realized that their is a promise for tomorrow's future with young leaders who are willing to give a voice to positive change. They arent running for any political position, but showing that one person can bring attention to important issues whether they get a vote or not. I hope, that as I engage with people thru this political process, that I don't just give people the message to "get out and vote," but inspire people to stand for something that is important to them. Voting might decide the future of a political position, but it is individuals who give a voice to change who are making the bigger difference. So this May when you vote, believe that your vote can affect change no matter which way you decide to vote.
