In the end, more than they wanted freedom they wanted security. They wanted a comfortable life and they lost it all — security, comfort and freedom. When the Athenians finally wanted not to give to society, but for society to give to them; when the freedom they wished for most was the freedom from responsibility, then Athens ceased to be free. — Edward Gibbons, “Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire”
It’s a perilous time for the United States, and what happens on Election Day, Nov. 4, will resonate until century’s end — both here and in the wide world beyond.
Four years ago, 100 million Americans of eligible voting age did not vote. In a critical presidential election, they were out to lunch; when it came to the highest and most fundamental duties of citizenship, they took a pass.
In that election, the staggering number of non-voters was an indictment of all who claim they value freedom, while ignoring their responsibility to vote.
This stunning neglect was nowhere more evident than by the failure of the 20-something generation to vote; that generation represented the highest percentage of non-voters. And their generation has the most to lose — by a lot.
Cynics will tell you your vote doesn’t count, that elected officials don’t care what you think, that politics is corrupt, that government is controlled by a privileged elite, obedient to the corrupting powers of special interests, but they ignore a larger, more brutal, and, in the end, unforgiving reality.
Here it is: If you don’t vote, you don’t count. If you don’t participate, you cannot effect change. Do you get it? You don’t count!
You can’t change government or politics by boycotting elections. Politicians fear many things. They don’t fear people who don’t vote. If that’s you, then you are the last thing they worry about.
In the real world, there are no rewards for failing to protect your interests. If you don’t vote, don’t participate, ignore what’s going on in the world around you, then at what moment in your state of denial do you expect things to improve?
That doesn’t mean that if you vote, things will go your way; that’s not the real world either, but at least you will have demonstrated your concern. No less important, you will honor the memory of those who died in freedom’s defense — and in defending your right to vote.
Gibbons, in writing his extraordinary work of history, understood well the ultimate collapse of all great civilizations begins when fundamental duties of citizenship are ignored and taken for granted. Voting is a fundamental duty, a requisite for any democratic society.
Therefore, I am proposing a small but potentially big idea, one that expands upon Colorado state law, which guarantees two hours off to vote. On Election Day Denver businesses are invited to set an example by permitting additional time off so employees can help their candidates and causes.
Already several firms have pledged assistance, including Bennett, Grody & Wagner; Snell & Wilmer; Fulcrum Publishing; and DMX-Direct. We encourage others to follow their lead.
In that context, Denver has a specific need for poll workers Election Day. Those who would like to help are invited to visit , or call 720-913-8683. Also, if you’re in Denver, you can call 3-1-1 and press 1 for election information.
I believe that Denver on Nov. 4, consistent with its remarkable history of civic engagement, will establish another new dynamic for other American cities to follow.
George Mitrovich is president of The Denver Forum.
