To those who have decided not to participate in our election because Joe doesn't embody their ideals for perfection, I hope that you understand progress comes through effort, and effort requires participation.

Refusing to participate is tantamount to endorsing the status quo. 1/

The amount adament anti-Biden people I've encountered recently have vivid imaginations when it comes to alleged wrongdoing, but very limited awareness of how important it is that we remove Trump and the republicans from office.

No candidate is perfect, but Trump is a monster. 2/

I've heard the argument put forth today that letting Trump win would teach establishment democrats a lesson, and help the party be more receptive.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

If you want the party to be receptive you need to be a part of the conversation. 3/

I've heard people say that they don't feel the democratic party represents them, but when asked about their activism and advocacy I get crickets back.

The same that denigrate the democratic party for its lack of progress are those who put in no effort to move it forward. 4/

From my perspective, as a political activist who's been involved with grassroots organizations and movements, as well as campaigns from the local, state and national level I can tell you that participation makes an enormous difference.

I've been a part of sweeping change. 5/

Last year in Virginia, for example, voter turnout was the highest it had ever been in an odd-odd year election (one where there's no governor, presidential or US legislative body races).

And we had not just a blue wave, but a blue tsunami by moblizing voters across the state. 6/

After that blue tsunami, and the new legislative body and reformer prosecutors took office, we saw sweeping changes begin across the board.

A brighter tomorrow came because of the effort so many put forth in the present.

Instead of giving up, they gave it all. 7/

What was most impressive, however, was the number of younger, more progressive people whom were engaged in the process. It was unlike anything I'd ever seen and it gave me great hope. It gave me hope to see that the people who complain so much here are a loud, but small group. 8/

When someone tells you that your vote doesn't matter, that the system is too broken to fix, or that a candidate doesn't meet their expectations, take a step back and ask yourself if they're trying to convince you or themselves.

Maybe they just don't want to try.

But you can. 9/

Each and every one of us have a roll to play to repair the catastrophic damage done to our country, to reclaim our morality, dignity and to move toward a future where we all can be proud of what we leave for the next generations to come. Let's take responsibility and do our part.