This is a crucial time to be engaging young people in democracy. Louise Cameron MSYP, chair of the Scottish Youth Parliament, explains why Ready, Steady, Vote Week is so important
With the referendum fast approaching, this is a crucial time to ensure young people can access the impartial information they need to make their decisions.
We are at a time in society where we, as young people, are making progress in terms of the voting age and civic participation. I believe it is so important that we grasp every opportunity to encourage young people to have their say about issues which are important to them, and ensure they have access to the information they need to participate in democracy as active and engaged citizens.
From the 16 to 24 August, young people from across Scotland will be able to take part in a range of exciting activities, with a focus on maximising engagement and young voter registration.Ready, Steady, Vote Week is going to be an action-packed week full of energy and enthusiasm, with every day dedicated to ensuring Scotland’s young people are ready to have their say on the future of their country by casting their vote in the referendum.
This is an opportunity to captivate an entire generation and encourage young people to continually make their voices heard
The week is being led by a number of organisations, who have together formed a Young Voter Engagement Group, committed to making sure young people are registered to vote and cast their vote in the independence referendum. The events that will be taking place throughout Ready, Steady, Vote Week will present invaluable opportunities to ensure young people have the chance to make sure their questions are answered so they have the confidence to make an informed decision.
For me, this week is not just about encouraging people to have their say in this one decision. It is an opportunity to captivate an entire generation and encourage young people to continually make their voices heard and have their say about issues which are important to them.
So please, spread the word about Ready, Steady, Vote Week and encourage everyone to get involved. I would like to encourage young people all across Scotland to stand up and be counted and be proud to have their say. As young voters, it is so important that we go out in our masses and make our mark on the ballot papers, because it’s our future and we need to make sure our opinions are heard.
Louise Cameron MSYP is chair of the Scottish Youth Parliament
