Disclaimer: Now, this is in no way a preachy post telling you who to vote for, but more encouraging you to actually vote - it’s actually really simple (although hints of my allegiance will be fed throughout, lol obvs). If you’re also not registered yet, please follow this link to ensure you’re able to vote. If you’re a university student, you can also register to your term time address and vote as part of that constituency. Now, less of the formalities, let’s get gritty.
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Politics. I know, I hear you gal and I let out a great big moan too - not the welcomed type either. Have you ever wondered why throughout school we are taught absolutely zilch about politics, and yet we’re expected to make a vote about a system we’re completely clueless about? Yeah, me too.
In case you’re not aware, Theresa May has called a ‘snap’ general election on 8th June 2017 - and I want to encourage you to vote. Voting allows you to air your views, and is your right in the UK. Anyone who follows me on Twitter will know I love a good political debate - even if I haven't got a clue about what I’m saying. Debating is good for the soul. Thinking is good for the soul.
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Be the change you want to see in the world - use your voice!
Fed up of the inequalities in the UK? Fed up of £9000 a year (and rising) tuition fees? Then vote - it gives you a voice! When the parties announce their manifestos, read them. These are key on seeing whether any of the points raised strike a chord with you. I don’t know about you, but I’m sick of the injustice and the demonization of the poor in this country. The media are a bugger for it too, I know, I’m a media student. I've seen so many people highlight the 'you should vote for yourself' card, and whilst I agree with this statement, I don't think it's entirely fair. I'm voting for the poor, the disabled, those who have had their NHS (which they rely on) destroyed.
I come from a working-class background, and I'll never forget the struggles my mum has had to go through in her life. She worked, and still does, every hour god sends to provide for her family. If it wasn't for the struggles we went through in early life, then I wouldn't be half the person I am today. I empathise with those living on the breadline, unsure where there next meal is coming from.
I’ll vote for a democracy that strives to redistribute the wealth in this country, and not allow for large, transatlantic companies to get out of paying their tax. I’m a student with two part time jobs - I still pay tax, so why shouldn’t they?
We, as the ‘next generation’ or millennials are the next generation to put our mark on this world - let's make it a positive one. We get it. We get a bad wrap as millennials. Even the word makes me queasy. We're deemed lazy. We're spoilt. We've had it too good. We've heard it all, and we know that's not the case.
We're so engaged in the wider world, and more than ever social media has made it easier for us to be connected to world issues. We may be called lazy, but we're compassionate and aware. From my Facebook list alone, I've had friends actively sharing political based content - educating and opening a discussion with their friends. Politics should be for everyone, it should be accessible and not elitist.
TIPS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE CLUELESS ON POLITICS: A NON-PATRONISING GUIDE FROM A COMPLETE NOVICE:
1. Follow journalists on Twitter - their job is to hold people to account, and they know their shit!
Personally, I love following Owen Jones. His passion and politics speaks to me - but there are plenty out there who are making this election accessible to all. Abi Wilkinson is another great source. Remember, a journalists job is to hold MPs to account, to unveil the truth and work for the public good.
Side note: please be wary of media sources, as some newspapers/publishing platforms are owned and managed by people who will try and influence the vote. Be wary, do your research. Just be critical with the media you're consuming,
2. Keep your eye on the political party websites for the shortcoming manifestos.
This is pretty self explanatory, but keep up to date with their websites for the Conservatives, Lib-Dem, Labour (and all the others in-between). They will post their key messages for you to read to decide on who you'll vote for.
3. Email your local MP, and find out what they've been doing!
People forget we're voting for our own MP's and see the vote based on the leaders of the parties. What we must remember is that yes, we're voting for a party but also our local MP. Head to TheyWorkForYou this will show you a simple breakdown on the issues your MP has voted on. Your MP should also have a contact page on their own private websites - quiz them, ask what they've been doing, what they want to do for your in the future, be as open and honest as you want. It's their job to respond.
Here's a breakdown of a table that I found on Twitter, that shows who voted on key issues:
Whether you believe Brexit is good or bad. Whether you hate Jeremy Corbyn, but side with Labour. Or whether you even think the Conservatives are not actively destroying the NHS (side note: I'm obviously not still voting for the tories) just vote, people died for your right to vote.
Social media and the internet makes it incredibly easy for us to find the information on the competing parties, let's change this lazy attitude we stamped with. Let's become educated, let's open a dialogue. Hell, let's make politics cool to talk about.
Because you may not be interested in politics, but politics is certainly interested in you. Politics defines and shapes the wider society around you.
Thanks for reading pals, let's open a discussion - I'd love to know your thoughts.
Love,
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