Here’s what Obama wants people who didn’t vote in the presidential election to know

This presidential election was a doozy, to say the least. We thought that the election stress would end with the end of the election, but it just keeps going. But our president wants us to remain hopeful. At President Obama’s first press conference since Trump was elected, he encouraged us to remain active participants in our political system. How? By voting. Though there are many ways to get involved and do your civic duty, Obama reminded us that voting is important, and that, even if you didn’t vote in the presidential election, you can still make a difference in your community.

If you didn’t vote in the presidential election, here’s what Obama wants you to know. At the press conference, Obama explained,

"Whenever you've got an incoming president on the other side, particularly in a bitter election like this, it takes a while for people to reconcile themselves with that new reality."

"Hopefully it's a reminder that elections matter and voting counts. I don't know how many times we have to re-learn this lesson, because we ended up having 43% of country not voting who are eligible to vote, but it makes a difference."

We’re hearing him out. While not everyone is on board with voting, we think that those who didn’t vote in the presidential election should still find ways to participate in politics. Even if you don’t think voting is the answer, it doesn’t hurt to give it a try. After all, you can still support your community in other ways!

His message is a reminder of his immediately classic call to action at the Democratic National Convention.

 As President Obama said: “Don’t boo, vote.” Something to keep in mind as we move forward. We’ve got a lot more voting to do, people. Don’t give up.