Election season has come and gone, and while the work of a new legislature begins, many constituents may recede back into the woodwork until their next turn at the polls. After all, voters have completed their responsibility, and it is now the job of lawmakers to care for their well-being, right?

Not entirely.

Every vote is extremely significant, but there is a difference between an individual’s value as a statistic and the value of their unique experiences. We cannot rely on others to make decisions about our lives before they understand our perspective.

Tell your elected officials what you’d like them to represent.

Begin by identifying a cause that you are truly passionate about.

From Wednesday, Jan. 15, through the end of the General Assembly, the League of Women Voters holds a Women’s Legislative Roundtable every Wednesday morning in the Tidewater Room of the SunTrust Building, 919 E. Main St. in Downtown.

Legislators, nonprofit leaders and league members discuss the issues and legislation that is most important. The public is welcome to participate by asking questions and gathering information toward advocacy letters, emails, phone calls and meetings.

After discovering an important issue, take action. Let influential people know why one proposal out of thousands deserves their attention.

If your representative does not match your party identification, it may seem frightening to submit your opinion. However, it is even more important to do so because they mainly attract viewpoints aligned with their own.

Your message does not have to be the most formal. Trust that your authentic voice is more than enough. With bravery and resolve, it will be heard.

MORGAN JOHNS

Richmond