Election Day brings with it a sense of civic duty, unity, or division in some cases; for most students this school year, it also provided a break from school. But have you ever wondered why we vote on Tuesdays? Beyond having the day off this week, what does advocating your voice through voting mean? 

Why We Vote on Tuesdays
The tradition of voting on Tuesdays dates back to 1845. During this time, most Americans were farmers who needed a whole day to travel to the nearest polling place. Tuesday was chosen as a convenient compromise since Sundays were for church and Wednesdays for market days. This allowed voters to begin their travels on Monday and reach the polls by Tuesday. Today, although Modern society is much different, the tradition has remained. 

The Importance of Voting and Advocating Your Voice
Voting is the foundation of democracy. It’s how citizens influence government and make their voices heard on issues that affect their lives. By participating, each voter contributes to shaping policies, electing leaders, and addressing issues from education and healthcare to social justice and the economy. Additionally, for your people, voting can be especially empowering, allowing them to advocate for their future as it allows them to get a sense of responsibility and have a say. Furthermore, advocating your voice goes beyond just casting a ballot. It includes staying informed, engaging in discussions, and encouraging others to participate. When you vote and encourage others to do so, you help build a more inclusive society where diverse opinions are represented. 

Student Perspectives on the Day Off
For students having the day off can be a break from the school routine. Sophomore Grace Moore shared, “The day off was very enjoyable because I was able to hang out with friends.” For many students like Grace, a break provides a chance to relax and socialize during the school week. Sophomore Evan Keane, however, found the day off useful for academic reasons, explaining, “The day off from Election Day really helped me prepare for the slough of end-of-term tests I had this week.” For Evan, the extra time allowed him to focus on his studies and feel more prepared as he tackled upcoming tests.

Election Day reminds us that civic participation is not only a responsibility but a privilege. Whether casting a vote, learning about candidates, or simply appreciating the day off, everyone plays a role in sustaining the democratic values that shape our society.