With important local elections up for grabs last week, Dallas County saw a relatively high voter turnout, even better than the state average, for the primary election.

Granted that number wasn’t even half of the number of eligible voters, but the 43.48 percent who did better than many other counties.

The past weekend was an annual tribute to the work done during the voting rights movement.

But really, that movement has continued for 51 years and is important to ensuring the future of our democracy.

The best way to pay tribute to the past and ensure that future is by registering to vote and participating in elections.

Those who live in Dallas County District 1 will have a runoff for county commissioner in just five short weeks.

Then in November, we all go back to the polls to elect the next President and several other state leaders.

It’s important to let your voice be heard. Selma, without history, should be better than average in election turnout.

But truth be told, it should be leading the state and country like it did 50 years ago.