Marlboro County Branch NAACP President Pearlie Lawson feels one of the most important things a citizen can do is exercise their right to vote.

“One of the most powerful weapons you have is your right to vote,” she said.

The NAACP will host a voter registration drive from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday in the back parking lot of the McDonald’s in Bennettsville. It will be a chance to register to vote and learn more about the process.

Lawson said registering to vote is important but what is most important is getting out and voting.

During the 2018 mid-term election for the primary, only 17% or 2,846 ballots were cast. Marlboro County has a little over 17,000 voters.

“Midterms elections are important,” she said. “Things will not change for us until we start showing interest in our county so state people will understand that we are here. They have to hear our voice. As long as Marlboro County has a low voter turnout, they will say they don’t need the county.”

Plus, Lawson pointed out that there is a perception that a vote is not important.

“People need to get more involved,” she said. “It is not what your precinct, gender, race or political affiliation is. We all must do what we can to change the perception that we are not counted.”

She added it would take more than the NAACP to encourage people to get out and vote.

“It takes anybody in this community who has an interest in educating voters,” Lawson said. “It will take pastors and community leaders stepping up to the plate.”

It is important for community members to encourage young people.

“Make sure they are registered and encourage them to vote,” she said. “If you are going to live here, participate.”