I've made it known on this blog that I wish to raise daughters who are active in the political process in the United States. My wife and I take them to the voting polls when possible and discuss the importance of voting around them. I don't want this post to get too political and partisan, but often times it's hard to see democracy working. Too often it seems the voice of the voters is not heard. There are, however, times when our voice is heard and positive results are obtained. A few weeks ago President Obama announced his rejection of the Keystone XL pipeline.
If you are unfamiliar or unaware, the Keystone XL pipeline is a proposed pipeline to bring tar sands oil from Canada to the U.S. for refining. If the goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and halt climate change, the Keystone XL pipeline must not be built. The Canadian tar sands oil needs to stay in the ground. The science is very clear on climate change. We know that it is real and we know that it is primarily caused by humans.
A few years ago it looked like Obama's approval of the Keystone XL pipeline was a foregone conclusion. Voters concerned about the future of this planet fought back by holding several rallies voicing their concerns. Petitions took place and more and more people began speaking about the problems with the Keystone XL pipeline. People, including myself, wrote to President Obama asking him to reconsider. At first the pipeline decision was delayed and in November President Obama officially rejected the pipeline!
This is democracy in action. This is why it is important to voice your opinion and be active in the political process. Politicians do listen when enough people are speaking! I'm not teaching my daughters what to think regarding politics. They'll make their own decisions on politics. I'm teaching them the importance of being politically active. This country and this planet cannot move forward if the people are not interesting and active in moving forward.
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