Be seen, heard. Vote

Only about 27 percent of eligible Asian-American voters voted in the 2014 midterms - compared to a national average of about 37 percent of Americans. As an Indian American woman, it can sometimes feel like no one represents my interests or my community. I remember the excitement I felt when I researched my first ballot, followed by the frustration that nobody representing my district made any mention of my community or the issues closest to my heart.

Even if I don't have my ideal ballot or candidate, my vote allows me to represent my community and elevate the issues I care about. Voting allows us to raise our voices, to shape the world around us and to be seen and heard. That is why I am working with the Skimm on it's No Excuses campaign this midterm cycle to help turn out voters. Please join me in voting - be seen and heard.

Akanksha Shah

Buffalo Grove