Our political system is a mess.
It’s not a secret that the political climate and way of life in the United States is at an all-time low. Even worse, a majority of Americans have been turned off by the system entirely. Members of a democracy that are apathetic to voting always ends in chaos.
The inspirational story of the 2014 Afghanistan Election
If you’ve been doubting whether democratic voting still holds any influence against the toxic powers that be, we invite you to look back in time to witness the 2014 Afghanistan election. Amidst terror, corruption, crumbling cities, and death, Afghan citizens banded together to create a historic democratic moment in their war-torn society.
The 2014 Afghanistan presidential election had a jaw-dropping 60% voter turnout. That may seem pretty average at first glance, but consider everything the Afghan people were up against. Not to mention, the 2012 U.S. Presidential election only had a voter turnout of just under 55%.
For some perspective on the atmosphere in Afghanistan during this time, the Taliban staged over 100 attacks during the election period, including one on the Afghan election headquarters.
One out of every six polling stations had to be closed for security purposes, prioritizing the lives of voters and workers during imminent threats from the Taliban.
More than 7 million Afghans voted despite direct threats from the Taliban—nearly 40% of those voters being women, who faced even more danger.
Additionally, Afghan officials and citizens had ample opportunity to report fraudulent activity during the elections under the supervision of the United Nations. Even though both candidates accused each other of fraud, in actuality, fraud and corruption were remarkably low compared to many Afghan elections in the past.
Unfortunately, as sometimes expected, the elected president was not ideal, and the Taliban remain a dangerous force throughout the country. Still, Ashraf Ghani won the election democratically, with 56.4% of the vote country-wide. This democratic demonstration was made possible by the people, who decided that, despite their circumstances, decided they needed to show up for their country to see any sliver of change and progression towards peace.
With the odds clearly stacked against them, this significant assembly of voters chose to live in hope for the future rather than be stuck in fear from the past. The courage displayed by the citizens of Afghanistan is a landmark for the power of the people, for 2014 was the first time in recorded Afghan history that power was transferred from one leader to another without violence and war dictating the outcome.
Our Mission
Historically, America’s voter turnout, especially in non-presidential races, is not that of a healthy and equally representative democracy. Don’t Vote, Don’t Complain operates with the powerful goal of increasing voter turnout in the United States. We’re also seeking to kill the monsters known as voter apathy and voter fatigue.
Our Vision
We want an America where its citizens are politically engaged enough to promote a healthy, stable and fair democracy. The United States is one of the world’s oldest democracies, and its most powerful— ever. Americans should never be disconnected with their government as a result of not participating in it at the very minimum.
Our Story
DVDC doesn’t care who (or for what) you vote for- just as long as you vote. We’re not Washington insiders, we’re based in New Jersey, and operate without a political agenda or affiliation. Donations are what empower us to do all of the good things we’re pitching to you.
OTHER NON-PARTISAN POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEES TO VISIT
Heroes United supports our nation’s firefighters, healthcare workers, military, law enforcement, and teachers.
With Honor works to support the next generation of veterans running for office who will support cross-partisan action.
NO LABELS looks to support a government that represents the interests of real Americans and not those of ideologues.
Center Forward is working to return Centrist ideas to divided Washington to find common sense solutions, especially between the major parties.
DVDC is no way affiliated with any of these organizations. Instead, we recommend looking at their causes as well if you happen to support ours.
We’re all in this together.
