US: Why it’s Critical for Foster Youth to Exercise Their Voting Rights (Opinion)

Imprint – November 04, 2024

During the 15 years I spent growing up in foster care, I was always opinionated and outgoing. At the same time, I also felt extremely disempowered. During those years, I moved through more than 20 different placements, living everywhere from foster homes to group homes to homes of extended relatives. Throughout all these stops, I was consistently told to be quiet, to do as I was told. Even important decisions about my life, like my education and diet, were made witout my input. My message to all marginalized people, including foster youth: Voting isn’t just a mundane adult task – it’s our power to shape the world. Your voice, as a foster youth, is especially crucial. You have experiences and insights that can lead to real change.

Why it’s Critical for Foster Youth to Exercise Their Voting Rights