Scarlett Johansson wants young Americans to know how much their voices matter.
During her Thursday night speech at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, NC, Johansson, 27, appealed to twenty-somethings who might not make exercising their right to vote a priority.
“In 2008, less than half of all eligible voters between the ages of 18 and 24 voted,” Johansson said. “Young America, why are we only speaking with half our voice when so many issues at stake here directly affect us? You know who I’m voting for. I’m not going to tell you who to vote for. I’m here to ask you to commit to vote.”
Johansson wrapped up her remarks by addressing those who might question her decision to talk politics.
“Over the last two days, we’ve been reminded of something that perhaps we forgot: what has been accomplished, and what is at stake. Whether we can get health care, afford college, be guaranteed equal pay — all at risk,” the Avengers actress explained. “And that’s why I’m here today — to use whatever attention I’m fortunate enough to receive to shed the spotlight on what’s at stake for all of us.”
Kerry Washington focused her comments on women’s issues.
“Today there are people trying to take away rights that our mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers fought for: our right to vote, our right to choose, affordable quality education, equal pay, access to health care,” the Scandal star, 35, shared. “We the people can’t let that happen.”
