WDAM Viewpint- Register to Vote - WDAM.COM - TV 7 - News, Weather and Sports

June 3, 2011

This past Tuesday, May 31^st, was the final day for those wishing to run for office in this year's election to qualify.  The first primary is only 2 months away on August 2^nd.  If you are not already registered to vote, the deadline for doing so to vote in the 1^st primary is July 2^nd.  I've talked to a number of people over the years who, unfortunately, are not able to cast their ballot simply because they let the opportunity to register slip by.  Not only have our fighting men and women in uniform given their lives for our right to vote…others have as well.  Here in Forrest County, Civil Rights Icon, Vernon Dahmer give his life in a horrible way from injuries sustained fighting off a nighttime raid by the Ku Klux Klan.  They set fire to his home and business while his family was asleep…and fired into the house.  He held them off by returning fire until his family could get to safety.  He died later of complications from his burns and smoke inhalation.  All this because he worked to give his people the right to vote.  There has been tremendous sacrifice by so many to give us that right.  When we don't even take the time to register…it is an insult—intended or not—to all those who have paid so much allow us that privilege.  Register to vote by July 2^nd and participate in the process that makes our country great.  I'm Jim Cameron and that's today's Viewpoint.  Let us hear what you think.