Being a Guardian Of Our Democracy
By: Melina Farahmand
Founder of Past Present Future Co.
Executive Director: Guardians of Our Democracy
Author of: From Dust to Breath and When the Stars Collide
As a lifelong activist and a student of political science and environmental studies, I know the importance of voting and its role within our democracy. In 2020, as a soon-to-be freshman in college, I gathered a group of 60 friends, family, and teachers together to advocate for higher voter turnout in elections through our PSA, ‘History is Watching.’
This was when I knew I wanted to go forward with my idea of @guardiansofourdemocracy (instagram handle). In a deeply divided country, we have to find ways to unify each other to have a shot at continuing to improve America for the better. We are far from perfect, and we can be better. Voting and participating in our democratic processes is one way of accomplishing this feat.
Former President Obama’s farewell address in 2017 spoke to my faith in my fellow young people and in our ability to create change by simply showing up for what we believe in. He said: “This generation coming up - unselfish, altruistic, creative, patriotic - I’ve seen you in every corner of the country. You believe in a fair, and just, and inclusive America. You know that constant change has been America’s hallmark; that it’s not something to fear but something to embrace. You are willing to carry this hard work of democracy forward. You’ll soon outnumber all of us, and I believe as a result the future is in good hands.”
Whether you’re young or young at heart, a citizen, or are in the process of becoming one, we can all get involved in this initiative. Join me and my friends by pledging to be a guardian of our democracy to protect our right to vote and to strive to have high voter turnout rates in every election. If you’re interested in joining as a volunteer or general supporter, please email us guardiansofourdemocracy@gmail.com to add you to our team. Visit our website: guardiansofourdemocracy.com.
