Complain. It’s what many teenagers and students do. Especially when it comes to social issues. This or that is always unfair and there’s no way to change it. Little do they know… 

Several seniors last month volunteered to distribute forms to those above the age of 16 that would allow them to register to vote early. What made this special is the fact that most people can only register once they turn 18. If students signed the form, they would be finished with the exact same process earlier which allows them to immediately vote once they turn 18.

In order to register, students were required to fill out and sign a paper that asked for their basic information and were given a pamphlet on voting as a bonus. So how did this happen? Well it’s quite simple. West Hill Community Association, a non-profit organization that works to support the area of Unincorporated King County, asked the seniors to do this. 

The purpose behind their gesture was due to a problematic trend that has been showing across the country. Younger citizens who have the ability to vote, have not been exercising that privilege. Reasons range from disinterest or not being taught how to vote. 

“Somehow it’s just become “uncool” to vote or participate in elections,” said senior Alicia Ing; she took part in informing students and helping them register. She’s not wrong, as statistics have shown that for the most recent presidential election in 2016 only 46.1% of all registered voters from the ages of 18-29 actually voted.

Renton has also been known for having one of the lowest rates of voting among young adults out of everywhere in Washington State. While it may be that little interest or knowledge on the subject has been a factor, Alicia pointed out it might also be that “students have no idea that they can impact our school and district.” 

In addition to asking students to register, she also asked them what issues in the community most concern them. “It was to prove to students that the issues that they care about are heard by officials who are trying to help students just like us, but need our participation in order to achieve our collective goals.” 

With over 40 forms being filled out by the time of the deadline which was October 25th, it seems that the mission was a success. The encouragement and knowledge students were given might lead them to let their voices be heard more often which will impact both Renton and hopefully the United States.