The right to vote is fundamental to our democracy, and for many Americans—perhaps most—hard won. It wasn’t until passage of the 15th Amendment in 1870 that all male citizens, regardless of “race, color, or previous condition of servitude” were guaranteed the right to vote. Women had to await the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, and it wasn’t until 1971, with adoption of the 26th Amendment, that the right was extended to anyone 18 years of age or older. Yet even today the struggle to fulfill the U.S. Constitution’s guarantees continues in the face of partisan efforts to restrict access. It’s not a right to take for granted.
Voters in Massachusetts and Harvard face few obstacles. Early voting, the availability of absentee ballots, and the 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. hours available for casting ballots at the Bromfield School on Election Day make voting so easy there’s little excuse not to take part.
This year Harvard citizens who might be inclined to skip the Nov. 6 state and federal midterm elections have a special reason to show up. For the first time since passage of the charter in May, Harvard will elect a new member to its five-person Select Board. Two candidates, both experienced in town government and both nominated at Town Caucus, are vying for the open seat in a Special Town Election. With its expanded authority to create and oversee the execution of a strategic plan for the town and to appoint the members of formerly elected volunteer boards, the responsibilities and authority of a Select Board member are greater than ever. Citizens get to choose the candidate they think best qualified, the one they trust to lead wisely. It’s a precious right. Honor it by voting on Tuesday.
