It is difficult to watch television or go on the Internet without seeing political ads informing people about the upcoming presidential elections. As we drive, we see signs in front of homes, political slogans on bumper stickers and even flags are being made to support presidential candidates.

Why all this effort to bring attention to the upcoming election? The answer is . . . because we matter. Who?s “we” you might ask? We the people, all the possible voters for this upcoming election. Candidates go across the country from town to town to give speeches letting America know why they’re the best candidate for the job.

A problem that has plagued elections is voter turnout, especially among the youth of the United States. One organization focuses on this aspect of raising voter turnout in youth. They are called Rock the Vote, and they have been encouraging the american youth to register themselves to vote since 1990.

How do they get the attention of America?s youth? They use music, popular culture, new technologies and grassroots to bring youth to the ballot boxes. Their goal is to motivate and mobilize youth so that the voices of the younger electorate are heard in elections.

Also, part of that goal is to urge politicians to pay attention to the issues that matter to young voters. Many Hollywood celebrities have come out to support this organization and to bring added recognition. Well known stars involved include Christina Aguilera, Miley Cyrus, Neil Patrick Harris and Miranda Cosgrove.

To further promote voting, the organization brings programs like Democracy Class, which gives students the information they need to learn so that they may get involved in voting. The organization also promotes awareness days like National Voter Registration Day, which takes place Sept. 25, 2012.

This year the Millennial Generation will make up nearly one fourth of the entire electorate. The challenge is to show them that their opinions matter and that everyone can make a difference.

To register to vote, one can pick up a voter registration form at the post office, library, department of motor vehicles or they can go online to register. You must register to vote by Oct. 22.

For more information, contact civics teacher Jordana Seibert. For more news, read the Sept. 25 article, AP scores released, FC beats state pass rate.