It’s Essential — Vote With Pride
By Megan Hunt, Nebraska State Senator
I’m Megan Hunt (she/her), a Nebraska State Senator representing the 8th Legislative District in Omaha. I am honored to share my journey and insights as part of the ‘Vote With Pride’ series, aiming to motivate young LGBTQ+ individuals to engage in the political process. Here’s my story and why I believe your involvement is crucial.
When I was a teenager, I dreamed of becoming a writer or a journalist. I loved storytelling and the power it held to illuminate important issues and inspire change. My passion for amplifying the voices and stories that aren’t typically in the spotlight and uncovering truths shaped my path and fueled my desire to make a difference.
Today, I serve as a Nebraska State Senator, representing the diverse and vibrant communities of midtown Omaha. I was first elected in 2018, and my tenure has been dedicated to advocating for policies that promote social justice, economic opportunity, and the protection of civil rights for all. My experiences as a small business owner, community activist, and mother have profoundly informed my work in the legislature.
I decided to run for office because I saw a dire need for more inclusive and compassionate leadership. Nebraska, like many places, needed voices that understood the everyday struggles of its residents and were committed to fighting for their rights. I wanted to bring a fresh perspective to the legislature and champion causes that would improve the lives of my constituents. My commitment to public service stems from a belief that government should be by the people and for the people, reflecting the diverse tapestry of our society.
My platform focused on supporting small businesses, improving outcomes for public school children, and expanding access to healthcare. While these issues are not explicitly about identity politics, they are deeply influenced by systemic discrimination. Our society’s structures in business ownership, healthcare, and education often favor outcomes for white, straight, Christian men. My goal is to make Nebraska a better place for everyone, which will naturally improve the quality of life for LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, those of different faith backgrounds, incarcerated individuals, and anyone who feels marginalized. The aim cannot be to improve life for just one category of people but to uplift all.
Young people are the future, and their engagement in politics is critical. Their voices, perspectives, and energy bring new ideas and drive progressive change. Involvement in politics empowers young individuals to advocate for their needs, challenge the status quo, and build a more inclusive society. For the LGBTQ+ community, this involvement is even more crucial. It ensures that our rights are safeguarded and that we have a seat at the table where decisions affecting our lives are made.
To young LGBTQ+ individuals aspiring to a career in politics, my advice is simple: be bold, be authentic, and never underestimate the power of your voice. Your experiences and perspectives are invaluable. They bring much-needed diversity to political discourse. Seek out supportive mentors and allies who can guide you and stand by you. Remember, your presence in the political arena can inspire and empower others in the LGBTQ+ community. Representation matters, and your journey can pave the way for future generations.
Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy. It’s not just a right but a powerful tool for change. Every vote is a voice demanding to be heard and a step towards shaping a society that reflects our values and aspirations. By voting, we hold our leaders accountable and ensure that the policies enacted align with the needs and desires of the people. For the LGBTQ+ community, voting is critical to securing and advancing our rights and protections. It’s our way of saying we matter, and our issues deserve attention and action.
With that said, voting is an important way to make change, but it’s not the only way. Connect with people in your area and build community. Build relationships. Listen to people already leading on issues that matter to you. Don’t be performative. Don’t try to be “the best activist.” You don’t have to invent the wheel. Nothing is up to you alone to fix. Join the people who are already working on it. Support organizations on the ground, local, close to the problems, that have already been doing the work for years.
We also need to actively protect our peace. That doesn’t mean ignoring the news, it doesn’t mean “not being political,” or closing yourself off from the painful realities of our world. It means read a book. It means move your body, get enough rest, give yourself enough nourishment, take in the art and beautiful things that the people around you are creating, give love to animals and children. Get wine with your friends in some garden. Everything is political, we are all political. You can’t, and shouldn’t, close your eyes to that. But protecting your peace is what will keep the hope alive inside of you that you have to be able to access in order to change the world. Care for yourself so you can show up.
Engaging the next generation in the political process is vital for our democracy’s health and longevity. Young people bring a unique perspective and a sense of urgency that can drive significant change. Their involvement ensures that the issues they care about — climate change, social justice, and equality — remain at the forefront of political discourse. It’s up to us to create pathways for their engagement and to support their journey in making their voices heard.
In conclusion, the involvement of young LGBTQ+ individuals in politics is not just beneficial; it’s essential. Your voices, your experiences, and your perspectives are the driving force behind progressive change. Be fearless in your pursuit of justice and equality. Remember, every step you take towards political engagement is a step towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
Let’s continue to Vote With Pride and make our voices heard for a better future.
About the Series
- To check if you are able to vote, visit nass.org/can-I-vote
- To register to vote or to check your voter registration, visit vote.gov
- To find the location and time of polling sites near you, visit usa.gov/how-to-vote
In 2024, across the globe, more people are going to vote than ever before. It is vital that you stay informed, and that, when the time comes you vote. The Vote With Pride series aims to motivate people, especially young queer people, to take their life into their own hands this year by casting a ballot.
