This particular issue comes at a time of upheaval for the United States. Whether you have good or bad memories of the past eight years, as you sit and read our November issue, you have an important, nay, vital responsibility before you. Nov. 4th is Election Day, where the 44th President will be elected. In addition to this race, there are a number of Congressional and Gubernatorial contests to be decided. We at AllAboutJazz-New York implore you to take your role in a democratic republic seriously. Whether you are for change or the status quo and whomever you believe will bring about one or the other, if you do not vote, you have not taken part in a crucial process. If you are reading this gazette, you probably agree to a certain extent that jazz is, to borrow a term, “America’s classical music”. And while that definition is out of date in the 21st century, it is the unique cultural experience - both good and bad - in this country that allowed an art form like jazz to be born and still thrive more than a century later. Part of that experience is the involvement of the citizenry in championing causes and addressing injustices. And just because we live in a cosmopolitan city with the time and resources to enjoy higher pursuits like music does not mean that we are any less compelled to stay involved in the affairs of our city, state, country and world. It is sad to see how bitterly partisan this country has become but that simply indicates that there is much work to be done. The least we can do as Americans is understand the issues, analyze the philosophies and undertake the privilege of voting with the seriousness and significance it deserves.
When your job as a citizen is done, you can enjoy November’s musical offerings and there are plenty as we approach fall and the end of the year. But if you do not vote, frankly it is questionable whether you deserve the other rights and benefits this city and country have to offer. See you at the polls...
