During the height of the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wrote, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
These words once inspired Americans to utilize their voice to fi ght segregation and the social ostracization of black people in the U.S. during the mid-20th century.
Now over 60 years later, it seems that our country finds itself in turbulent times once again.
Global confl icts, political violence and immigration policy changes have flooded news headlines in recent years. And as a result, many people are growing apathetic, oftentimes spitefully so, towards politics.
People who have adopted this mindset often believe that the path to peace and comfort is to remain quiet and neutral on controversial issues, aiming to upset no one by surrendering their power as a voter and citizen of a democratic nation.
While the choice to remain politically inactive may feel like a personal choice to prevent risks of conflict, it is a passive disservice to one’s country.
As long as gun rights continue to be abused, immigrants continue to be mistreated and healthcare rights continue to be stripped, public outrage and protesting will continue. Sitting on the sidelines and chastising both sides for simply caring enough to fight for something is not, and will never be, progress.
Choosing to not vote or support any political causes in any way is choosing to stand directly in the way of people who are trying to make positive change.
This, however, doesn’t mean that anyone should resort to extremism, violence or fighting with friends and family over slight disagreements to promote one’s political beliefs. The best way to make change is by researching candidates in national, state and local elections and voting for those who have the best interest of the people and others in mind.
In Indiana, you can register to vote at indianavoters.in.gov.
More ways to call for change can include attending peaceful protests and donating to important causes.
In fact, it’s the biggest threat to patriotism in our country.
As stated by Elie Wiesel, “The opposite of love is not hate. It’s indifference.”
