I received a call recently from a Catholic friend who expressed a particular concern about the upcoming General Election Nov. 4. He had talked to several people from his parish who told him “it doesn’t make any difference, Republicans and Democrats are all the same... they are all crooks, nothing gets done... it’s a waste of my time to vote.”
My friend pleaded with me to get the word out that our vote does make a difference and that we have a responsibility as Christians to vote and to be engaged in the political process. I agree completely with his concern. And, if fact, this is the main purpose of the Nebraska Catholic Conference’s Voter Education Project.
This frustration and cynicism toward politicians is understandable. Even a casual observer of the political process can be “turned off” by the negative campaign ads, demonization and personal attacks and the hyper-partisanship that dominates and impedes the legislative process.
This negative view toward politicians and politics in general is undoubtedly a major reason for the shamefully low voter turnout for most elections. According to the Nebraska Secretary of State, about 30 percent of eligible voters are not even registered to vote. For the May 2012 primary election, only 29 percent of registered voters cast a ballot. In the upcoming general election, the estimate is that about 40 percent of registered voters will vote. These numbers are irresponsible and shameful, period.
It is absolutely imperative that we resist the temptation to let our frustration and cynicism cause us to disengage from the political process. Disengagement is dangerous because the void it creates will be filled by someone—perhaps someone who cares little for the sacredness of human life or the common good. Disengagement is also dangerous to our souls because it is a dereliction of our duty as Christians, and something for which we will account before God.
The U.S. Bishops, in their statement on political responsibility entitled “Faithful Citizenship,” said: “In the Catholic Tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation.”
Pope Francis, in a homily he gave in Rome one year ago said, “Citizens cannot be indifferent to politics: None of us can say ‘I have nothing to do with this, they govern.’ No, no, I am responsible for their governance. I have to do the best so that they govern well; I have to do my best by participating in politics according to my ability. I cannot wash my hands…We all have to give something!”
The U.S. Bishops, in Faithful Citizenship, acknowledge that “This duty is more critical than ever in today’s political environment, where Catholics may feel politically disenfranchised, sensing that no party and too few candidates fully share the Church’s comprehensive commitment to the life and dignity of every human being from conception to natural death. Yet this is not a time for retreat or discouragement; rather, it is a time for renewed engagement. Forming their consciences in accord with Catholic teaching, Catholic lay women and men can become actively involved: running for office; working within political parties; communicating their concerns and positions to elected officials…”
In their statement Living the Gospel of Life, the U. S. Bishops said, “We encourage all citizens, particularly Catholics, to embrace their citizenship not merely as a duty and privilege, but as an opportunity meaningfully to participate in building the culture of life,” the Bishops continue. “Every voice matters in the public forum. Every vote counts. Every act of responsible citizenship is an exercise of significant individual power.
“We must exercise that power in ways that defend human life, especially those of God’s children who are unborn, disabled or otherwise vulnerable. We get the public officials we deserve. Their virtue—or lack thereof—is a judgment not only on them, but on us. Because of this, we urge our fellow citizens to see beyond party politics, to analyze campaign rhetoric critically, and to choose their political leaders according to principle, not party affiliation or mere self-interest.”
If you are not registered to vote, GET REGISTERED! Registration forms and information are available online at www.sos.ne.gov or at your county election office. Then prepare yourself to vote with a Catholic conscience through, at least, the means provided by NCC’s Voter Education Project, which has appeared in the Register. Watch for more articles in this newspaper and check out other useful resources at www.nebcathcon.org.
