This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
In recent weeks we have seen demonstrations in the streets of Ferguson, Mo., over the death of Michael Brown, who was gunned down by a police officer for apparently doing nothing more than walking in the street.
I empathize with his parents and the loss of their son. But for the community in general to protest really serves no purpose, other than bring attention to the inequality we as a nation face. If they really wanted to make a statement, they would all register to vote, and do their civic duty, which our Constitution ensures.
As my mother use to say, "If you don't vote, then you have nothing to complain about."
Where is the two-party system? Why are they not registering the people of Ferguson and other communities? I assume it is just easier to complain than to actually make the change your communities need.
It truly is an embarrassment to this nation, that we can tell others around the world how to live their lives, yet our own citizens allow the few to dictate policy. To those who do not vote, you should be ashamed of yourselves. And to those who do exercise their rights, under the Constitution, I applaud you.
Charles Glaser
West Valley City