We aren’t talking enough about this year’s local elections. Sometimes it’s easy to speak generally about social issues to the point that we forget the reality of their impact. It’s been a year since the election of Donald Trump, and we have the opportunity to vote locally to push back against policies and politicians, new or old, that don’t properly represent our beliefs, needs, and communities. This year has seen attacks on women’s reproductive rights and immigration reform — but, according to Ballotpedia.org, 59 out of the 100 largest cities by population have local elections this year. Voting locally can be the difference between being paid $15 an hour as a basic, livable wage or being able to afford housing in the city that you love. Here are five reasons why voting local is crucial to having your voice heard, and how you can make that happen with many voting on November 7. Yup — it’s that close. And if you’re away from home for work or school, no sweat! You can still vote via absentee ballot that you can request by mail.

1. All resistance is local.

Now more than ever, young people need strong and dependable representation at the local level. Your municipal government is where progress happens — or doesn’t. Have you ever wondered why gay marriage was previously legal in some states but illegal in others? That’s because it related to civil rights, so state law undermined federal law. Since several state legislative seats are up for grabs, voters have a chance to weigh in on their rights. For voting information, visit your state's Secretary of State website, easily found with a search.

2. Criminal justice reform is local.

We often unite under a hashtag, the name of a person of color killed by police. Many protest to demand change and justice. This year, there’s finally an opportunity to vote for justice. Your mayor is ultimately responsible for criminal justice and policing reform, and if you live in a city with an election this year, the future of police relations in your community is counting on your participation this election. In most cities, the mayor appoints the police chief and the police chief oversees the training, hiring, and investigating of the police department. If police brutality in your area worries you, take a closer look at your mayoral candidates and their colleagues to ensure that your next police chief is someone you can trust to protect and serve your community. You are absolutely empowered to attend a town hall or campaign event to ask some serious questions and state your concerns. Most candidates post their events on their websites or Facebook pages. But the best way to stay updated is to sign up for the email list usually found on a candidate's website. After all, you employ politicians with your tax dollars — so make sure these candidates work for you.

3. Gentrification is local.

As a Brooklyn native, I was shook when I found out there were white people living in Crown Heights. No offense to the 1%, but gentrification is real and it’s local. Local government officials are directly responsible for the changes made in any community, and they make decisions that can impact a city for generations. Everything from transportation to business development to affordable housing are decisions made by the city’s leadership. And although every city’s infrastructure is different, the issues are the same. Whether you live in Compton or Chicago, check out who’s running for city council in your area and tell them that the rent is due.

4. Numbers don’t lie.

The Electoral College isn’t up for a vote this year, so every single vote matters in local elections like never before. Unfit candidates have set back entire cities because they won by 10 votes. Don’t be that one person who limits progress within in your city because you were too busy to vote. Your voice is needed and valued most during local elections. So bring your friends and make it a party or bring your crush and make it a date! The silver lining of Trump’s victory last year is that young people like Bee Nguyen and Randall Woodfin are running historic campaigns! You could have the chance to vote for the next Obama if you cast your ballot right.

5. Because you can.

It is a luxury to have the right to vote. You can peacefully break up with the most powerful person in your city and choose someone else without having to risk your life. Take advantage of your freedom, and participate for your own advantage. Elections are not about the candidates, they are about us. Build back your political power and get out to vote. If you don’t know when or where to vote, start with www.vote411.org.

Related: Why Women Need to Be Elected to Office

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