Red, White, and True Independence: Why Turning 18 Requires More Than Just a Vote
Red, White, and True Independence: Why Turning 18 Requires More Than Just a Vote By Melinda Gustafson Gervasi July 3, 2026 Image by M. Gustafson Gervasi 2026 The Summer of 2026 holds to significant birthdays for me. First, our nation turns 250 years old. As a member of the legal profession, I hope we see renewed reverence for the rule of law, and strengthen our democratic institutions. Second, my oldest child turns18 in late summer. Both of these events cause my mind to think about independence, duty and responsibility that culminate in a desire to educate young adults on a key task they should consider completing on our near their birthday. Turning 18 ushers in a new chapter of your life, heavily dosed with a helping of independence. You can vote, sign up for the selective service, and sign contracts. You are officially an adult in many aspects of life. However, with this independence comes a responsibility. Many families are surprised to learn that with t...