40 things to do on Election Day in the U.S.

It’s election day in the United States. If you already voted, thank you. Consider helping others get to to the polls today. If, however, you are eligible vote and have not yet done so I have a few things for you to do today:

1. Vote.
2. Vote even if you know your candidate will win. Nothing is certain.
3. Vote even if your favorite candidate is not in the race. It’s okay to be disappointed, but you should not give up your rights because of it.
4. Vote even though no candidate is perfect. No one ever is.
5. Vote because you can.
6. Vote because so many still can’t.
7. Vote and help someone else get to the polls.
8. Vote and don’t let anyone intimidate you or prevent you from voting. Report voter intimidation immediately to the Election Protection Hotline: 1-866-OUR-VOTE or 1-888-VE-Y-VOTA (en Español) or The U.S. Department of Justice Voting Rights Hotline: 800-253-3931; TTY line 877-267-8971
9. Vote with a provisional ballot if a pollworker can’t find you on the list of registered voters. All voters are entitled to a provisional ballot. If you are refused one, use the numbers above.
10. Vote even though you “hate politics.”
11. Vote because it is a duty.
12. Vote because it is a privilege.
13. Vote to have a say.
14. Vote to make a difference.
15. Vote like the future depends on it. Spoiler: It does.
16. Vote to make history.
17. Vote not just for President but for local and state officials and ballot initiatives that can often have a greater impact on your day-to-day life than the national race.
18. Vote knowing what candidates and issues will be on your ballot. (You don’t want to affirm a judge who is legally insane, do you? It’s happened.)
19. Vote based on facts and issues, not propaganda and emotion.
20. Vote because the results of the election can change your life.
21. Vote because the results of the election can change the lives of your family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers.
22. Vote because it is the least you can do for your country,
23. …for your state,
24. …for your community.
25. Vote because there are Supreme Court vacancies to fill.
26. Vote but be wary of “protest” votes. Remember the Brexit vote.
27. Vote because your opinion matters.
28. Vote because you matter.
29. Vote on behalf of your children or grandchildren who are too young to vote for themselves.
30. Vote to get one of those “I voted” stickers. (Or wristbands in Chicago)
31. Vote because some places will give you free food or drinks with proof that you voted.
32. Vote, but be sure you are in the proper polling place. Search for your polling place here.
33. Vote because these celebrity videos tell you to.
34. Vote to avoid hearing really bad news tonight.
35. Vote because it gives you a voice.
36. Vote to help give a voice to others.
37. Vote and be proud that you did.
38. Vote.
39. Just vote.
40. But please, please, please do not vote for Donald Trump.

(Adapted from a post I wrote in 2012.)

RELATED POST: Why I didn’t vote for Hillary Clinton in 2008 and why I’m with her now

For more thoughts, follow Kim Z. Dale on Twitter, Facebook, and Google+ .