By Kathy Groob, Founder ElectWomen.com – In less than a month, Election Day will be held across the United States and in US Territories.  Each state is different in terms of voting times, hours, procedures and rules.  Click the link here to find out the rules in your state.  Most importantly, here are the five things to know before Election Day on November 4, 2014:

1.  Voting is Democracy
Voting is not just your right, it’s your obligation as an adult citizen of The United States.  People fought for your right to vote. At one time only rich landowners were permitted vote. If you are female, many women fought, marched, suffered and were beaten in order to earn the right for women to vote.  If you are a person of color, your ancestors fought and died for their right to vote. We honor their work and sacrifices by voting.

2.  Your Vote Does Matter
Every election there were candidates who lost by a hand full of votes or even by one single vote. Each and every vote is precious and it does impact the outcome of elections.  Like them or not, honest, hardworking candidates step up to run for office. They put their private lives on hold and work hard to earn the votes of citizens.  Respect and honor their work and sacrifice by taking the time to vote.

3.  It’s Not That Complicated
Take a few moments to check out the rules in your state, identify your polling location and take the time to vote early (if permitted) or on Election Day.  Use this helpful voting guide to find out more about your state’s election laws.  http://www.brennancenter.org/student-voting Be sure to bring your photo ID or other piece of identification with you to the polls (just in case it’s required). To avoid long lines, avoid peak times if possible (early morning, lunchtime, closing time). If you are in line, you can vote.

4.  Learn About Candidates
With the Internet, Facebook and other online sources, research about candidates is easy. You can easily “Google” the person’s name and find out about their background and positions on issues. County clerks and Secretaries of State also offer sample ballots and candidate information. Educate yourself before going to the polls.

5.  We Are All Equal on Election Day
Regardless of socioeconomic status, gender, race, age (over 18), we are all equal on Election Day. This is the one day of the year that your voice and your opinion matters just as much as any other person; famous, rich or poor in America.  It is your chance to have a say, to affect policy, guide the direction of our country, your state and local government.  It matters to us and it matters to the world.  You are worth your vote and this country needs you.  For more information, click here: http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Voting/Register.shtml.

Now GO VOTE!

About the Author
Kathy Groob is a political and business consultant, founder of ElectWomen, activist for women’s rights, former elected official, former candidate, wife, mother, daughter, sister.