I’ve never been the biggest fan of the phrase “I don’t get involved in politics,” and to be quite honest, the saying has never sat well with me. You see, there’s a vast difference between choosing to not disclose your political ideologies with others and simply not educating yourself on the issues that are so prominent in our world today. 

By choosing to not engage in politics, it’s not because you don’t necessarily care about politics, but because you don’t have to care about politics. It’s become a form of privilege similar to how being white, heterosexual or living in a certain tax bracket is. The policies implemented by the federal administration greatly target marginalized Americans; therefore if you don’t fall into that category, you don’t have to worry about certain commodities in your life being put at risk.

 For instance, if you’re part of the top 10%, then you most likely will not be concerned over legislation that threatens governmental funding for low-income Americans. You’re not threatened by rulings that are passed into law everyday, which sadly is not something that can be said for many Americans. 

 Your privilege lets you simply pass by an article pertaining to another black man being shot or immigrant families being separated at the border. Your privilege allows you to go on with your day-to-day life without any regard for the political climate because you don’t see these issues affecting you directly. Your privilege shouldn’t equate to a mentality that is tone-deaf to the needs of others. Now I’m not saying your privilege makes you a hateful person nor does it make you ignorant; however when you continue to disregard the societal advantages that your privilege gives you and be apolitical, it becomes a problem. 

As we continue to grow and learn from our mistakes, we have to acknowledge the world around us. It’s become a lot more than just politics. Human rights are now on the line, and if we continue to turn a blind eye to the  injustice and corruption that circles around us, it is inevitable that we will create immense damage. 

With the upcoming election, whether you are eligible to vote or not, I encourage everyone to make their voices heard. We shouldn’t be afraid to call out others when they make mistakes nor should we fear criticism for our political beliefs. Remember that our actions, no matter how big or small, can make an impact. 

Silence equals violence.