Today is election day in the United States. Millions of Americans have already cast their votes and have taken part in this consequential election. And millions more will be voting at polling places today, exercising this important right.
At CCDA, we believe that civic engagement is important on election day and all year long. We wanted to take some time to hear from one of our board members, Mary Nelson, who has voted in many important elections and is actively involved in her community throughout the year.
Why Does Voting Matter?
Voting matters because of three fundamental truths:
- We are all God’s Image-Bearers
Voting isn’t just a nice, democratic idea. It’s an opportunity for all people to be involved in making important decisions. - Voting is Part of Doing Justice
We also vote because we are called by God in Micah 6:8 to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. - Voting is Power
When a community comes together to advocate as one for their neighbors, it can be incredibly effective and can lead to transformation.
Voting is one way that we can come together with our neighbors to make a difference.
Why Should We Vote?
We are standing on the shoulders of those who fought for this right. Those who came before us worked hard to secure this freedom for us, and we honor their legacy when we vote.
Voting is also an important opportunity for us to raise our voices and advocate for our neighbors.
How Do You Build Community During Election Season?
While each vote is cast by an individual, there’s a community aspect to election season. Phone banking, door knocking, souls to the polls, and more can serve as that reminder that we are not alone.
Is Voting the End?
Voting is an important part of advocating for our communities and neighborhoods, but it’s not the end. After we’ve taken the time to get informed on the issues, registered ourselves and others to vote, and gotten out the vote, there’s still more work to do.
Throughout the year, we can continue to be engaged civically in our communities, holding politicians accountable and advocating for our neighbors.
About Mary Nelson
Rev. Dr. Mary Nelson brings over 50 years of experience to the Christian Community Development Association as a Founder and former Board Member. Mary is President Emeritus of Bethel New Life, a faith-based community development corporation, where she served for 26 years. She still lives, works, and worships in the same low-income African American community. Mary actively participates in city-wide, national policy advocacy efforts. She is also on the faculty of the ABCD (Asset Based Community Development) Institute at DePaul University, on the Board of Christian Community Development Association, and served on the Board of Sojourners. Mary has her PhD from Union Graduate School and six honorary PhDs and is now doing consulting, writing, and teaching. She is the author of the handbook Empowerment, published by CCDA (2010), and has authored chapters in a number of books on sustainable community development.
