If You Haven’t Yet, Vote

Before Angelenos go out today, perhaps wondering whether they will have the time or inclination to vote before the polls close at 8 p.m., here are a few reminders about the importance of election day.

Around the world, America is the modern model of democracy. In fledgling democracies like South Africa, recently war-torn nations like Bosnia and Herzegovina and many former dictatorships, the right to vote is a thing to be cherished. It’s something worth dying for.

In South Africa last week, the crowds at polling places looked like the U.S. ticket lines at the opening night of the latest “Star Wars” movie. South Africa is still torn by internal divisions and racial problems, but there were more than 14.1 million verified votes cast in a presidential election with 18.3 million potential voters.

Countries like Cambodia, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Indonesia and Slovenia now have posted voting rates of 80% or higher. But America’s own image of leadership in democracy has faltered. Past voter turnout here in Los Angeles is a prime example, with numbers as low as 11%.

Again, today, there is no excuse for this; absentee voting makes it that much easier. L.A. voters have a once-in-a-generation chance to change the way their city government operates. They can do that by voting for a new city charter. They can cast ballots for important new leadership in City Council districts and on the school board. There also are important measures in Orange and Ventura counties, such as Ventura’s praiseworthy Measure A, which would green-light the Midtown Corridor Redevelopment Project.

By voting today, one shows a rightful respect for those around the world who must pass armed soldiers or walk miles to get to a polling place for the fragile hope of political freedom. Today, do your part. Vote.