I’m an Immigrant With No Voting Rights. Your Vote Matters | Opinion [Video]

The sentiment that voting is a civic duty runs strong among many people, especially during an election year. Most American citizens above the age of 18 are eligible to vote. I have been living in the U.S. since January 2017 and am not eligible to vote as my asylum case is still pending, six years after first applying for it. In these seven years, I have seen two presidencies, contributed to my community, paid my taxes, and performed the duties which any law-abiding U.S. citizen would have. My voice in selecting the leader who will decide my future in this country is not considered—but many of yours are. That is one of countless reasons why you should vote.

Consider Washington, D.C., where I live. The city has its flaws and strengths but, like many contributing members of the immigrant community, its ability to vote on its leadership is limited. It is true …