The Importance of Voting
Civic Duty and Privilege: Voting is not just a right; it is a responsibility and privilege that each eligible citizen should embrace. By participating in elections, you play an active role in shaping the future of your community and country. Your vote carries the power to influence policies, hold leaders accountable, and create a more inclusive society.
Democracy and Representation: Voting is the essence of a democratic society. It ensures that every voter’s voice is heard in fair elections conducted with integrity. Unnecessary restrictions on voting rights strike at the heart of representative government. Safeguarding and guaranteeing the right to vote is crucial for a healthy democracy.
Historical Context: Throughout history, voting rights were not always universal. Amendments like the 15th (allowing black men to vote) and the 19th (granting women the right to vote) expanded suffrage. Ensuring accessibility and fairness in voting remains essential.
How Voting Affects Small Businesses
Policy Impact: Policies influenced by elections significantly affect the economic climate for small businesses. Tax changes, regulations, and government spending decisions can directly impact business operations and growth.
Midterm Elections: Midterm elections shift bipartisan control of Congress, leading to changes in federal policy. Small business owners can expect impacts related to inflation, the labor market, and supply chains.
Business Advocacy: Business leaders recognize the importance of voting rights. Restrictive voter laws divide communities, and businesses want to invest in united, inclusive environments. They advocate for accessible, fair elections and oppose measures that hinder voting.
Educating Yourself About Candidates Running for Office
Know Your Community: Understand the issues affecting your community. As a resident, you likely notice things that need improvement. Poll your social media followers to gauge their concerns as well. Realistic promises matter; avoid making commitments you can’t fulfill.
Research Candidates: Visit candidates’ campaign websites to learn about their policy positions, values, and causes they champion. Look beyond slogans and hashtags—seek authentic expressions of passion and values.
Candidate Biographies: Read candidate biographies to understand their backgrounds, qualifications, and positions on important issues. A good story adds a personal touch to their campaign and provides insight into their values.
Training and Resources: Explore resources on running for office, attend candidate training programs, and learn about the campaign process. Organizations like the National Council on Independent Living offer valuable guidance.
Remember, voting is not just an individual act—it shapes the collective future. Educate yourself, engage in the political process, and make informed choices to strengthen our democracy! 🗳️🇺🇸
We all have our own reasons to vote during election cycles. A few examples include –
- The “I Voted!” sticker
- My mother told me to do it, or else!
- It’s a great social media post! Especially if you’re with your mother and wearing an “I Voted!” sticker!
While these humorous, real-life examples may seem silly, they represent how we may overlook the importance and significance of our right and duty to vote in federal, state, and local elections. Now, more than ever, employers and small business owners play a pivotal role in shaping the economic and political landscape of our state and our country. Policies influenced by elections significantly affect the economic climate for small businesses. Tax changes, regulations, and government spending decisions can directly impact business operations and growth. Your vote effectuates the direction of business from both Washington D.C. and Springfield, Illinois.
On March 19, 2024, the primary election takes place in Illinois to determine which candidates for numerous federal, state, and county offices move on to the general election to be held on November 5, 2024. Offices include the President of the United States, U.S. Representatives, Illinois Representatives and some Illinois Senators, state and county judges, and state attorneys. In DuPage County, early voting has already begun with numerous polling places open so you may more conveniently exercise your right to vote.
Educating yourself about the various candidates is also critically important. Understanding candidate platforms allows voters to truly engage in the election process and make choices with confidence in the polling booth. There are numerous opportunities and resources available to become informed ranging from candidate websites, townhalls and forums, and questionnaires specifically focused on business related concerns which can be found on the NACC website.
Our members will have the opportunity to meet with state legislators in Springfield on April 10th during the Illinois Chamber of Commerce Lobby Day. This annual event presents a unique opportunity for chamber members to come together with fellow business leaders from across the state to advocate for issues critical to our collective success.
Attending this event allows us to amplify our voice by joining forces with chambers from various regions, strengthening our collective voice and increasing our influence on important legislative decisions affecting businesses statewide. Additionally, this event will provide opportunities to network on a statewide level with like-minded individuals and organizations committed to advancing our business interests. Please consider joining the NACC on April 10, 2024.
The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce is working to make advocacy easy for our members. Regular updates, election information, voting resources, and advocacy opportunities will be coming to your inbox and via social media. Our combined efforts will not only strengthen our chamber’s representation but also underscore our commitment to advancing the interests of our local business community on a broader scale.
So, get out there and vote! Bring your mother, collect your sticker, and play a pivotal role in the success of your business or workplace.