Should Kids have the Right to Vote?

A Woman For President.

Victoria Woodhull was outraged that women were denied the equal right to vote. Other groups have worked hard for their civil rights to participate in this fundamental American practice: casting a ballot on election day. What about you? Should kids as young as 14 or 16 have the right to vote? This question stirs opinions from "absolutely" to "how ridiculous." Where do you stand on this issue?

Before 1971, the voting age was 21. The Vietnam War stirred public opinion to agree that if 18 to 20 year olds could fight for their country, they deserved a political voice. What reasons can you think of to support the idea of the voting age being lowered to 16?

Why not work with your children,in small groups, perhaps with friends, to brainstorm at last ten reasons for "youth vote." Allow 15-20 minutes. For each reason, have kids provide 1-2 sentences to explain and support this position. Then, have them take the opposite point of view and repeat this exercise. Hold a "home" debate and invite other youth to listen and then share their ideas-by casting a vote for or against lowering the voting age. Or create a neighborhood-wide campaign.

Consider these reasons for youth voting rights
(adapted from the National Youth Rights Association, www.youthrights.org)
* Youth have adult responsibilities but not rights.
* Youth pay taxes.
* Politicians only listen to people who can vote.
* Only youth can offer a true youthful perspective.
* Sixteen-year-olds study about government and social issues.
* This would increase voter turn-out.
* Voting at an early age would begin a lifelong practice of voting.
* Character development comes with new responsibility.