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 without my input.
When I look back on those times, my heart aches for that young Black boy who stopped speaking up because he felt unheard. If only he, and the many other young people in similar situations, were able to recognize the power they hold.
This year’s elections are a perfect opportunity to not only realize that power, but to demonstrate it.
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. Here’s why it’s absolutely essential for foster youth to get out and vote:
Your Perspective Matters
As foster youth, we’ve seen the system up close. We know what works and what doesn’t. Our experiences give us a perspective that’s often missing in policy discussions. By voting, you help ensure that the people in power understand what foster youth really need. Your vote can help change policies and improve the system for those who come after you. If you don’t speak up and advocate for yourself, others will — and your silence gives consent to whatever they decide.
Drive Systemic Change
Let’s be real — the foster care system has a lot of issues. When I was in the third grade, I was presented with the opportunity to skip two grades and graduate alongside my fifth-grade study partners. I was excited for the opportunity, I felt that it was absolutely necessary for me to catch up but when the principal asked my foster parent — a woman with whom I had been living with for just a few weeks — she decided it wasn’t in my best interest, citing social reasons. This was just one instance of decisions being made for me. Voting gives you the power to choose leaders who care about reforming the foster care system. Your vote can help create a future where foster youth get the support and opportunities they deserve. It’s a way to take control and make your voice heard.
Stand Up and Be Counted
For too long, youth in foster care have felt like they don’t have a say. Voting flips the script. It’s your chance to stand up and show that your experiences matter. When you vote, you’re telling the world that you’re here, you care, and you’re ready to make a difference.
Advocate for Justice & Equity
I work hard to advocate for vulnerable populations, including foster youth, who often come from communities facing significant social challenges. Whether it’s racial justice, LGBTQIA+ rights, or economic fairness, you’ve got firsthand knowledge of these issues. Voting gives you the power to support leaders and policies that fight for justice and equality. Your vote can help create a fairer world for everyone. You can also advocate for those who can’t vote or use their voice in the same way.
Stay Engaged
When you start voting young, you build a habit of staying engaged with the issues around you. Voting isn’t just a one-time act. It’s a way to keep making your voice heard throughout your life. The more you and your friends vote, the stronger our democracy becomes. Your participation can inspire others to get involved and make a difference, too.
Don’t Stop
Yes, there are barriers. Moving around a lot can make it tough to register or stay informed about voting. But don’t let that stop you. Organizations are ready to help you get registered, better understand your rights, and navigate the voting process. Reach out, ask for help, and make your vote count. Voting is your chance to be heard and to create real change. As a foster youth, your insights and experiences are crucial for shaping policies that work. By voting, you’re not just helping yourself. You’re paving the way for future foster youth and contributing to better outcomes for your community. So get out there, amplify your voice, and vote! Your future and the futures of so many others absolutely depend on it.
