Your right that some people think voting means participating in democracy. But public debate, petitions, the press, demonstrations, etc. is also an important p

Your right that some people think voting means participating in democracy. But public debate, petitions, the press, demonstrations, etc. is also an important part of democracy. But really, if you want impact, don't do it individually: join a group, a party, an NGO, etc. As an individual you shouldn't have much impact in a democracy. The fact there are many individuals trying kind works to keep the barrier for impact high - which is good, without it no stability.