Activism and the Youth Vote

What questions do you have about this election? 

I want more information regarding Hillary Clinton’s “email controversy,” including answers to the following questions. What was in those emails? Can she be persecuted for this issue? Is she still under investigation?   

What makes you want to vote? 

One year ago, after attending a ceremony called the Oath of Allegiance, during which I swore my loyalty to this country, I was handed a large enveloped by an immigration officer that included a signed letter by the president of the United States congratulating me for my efforts in becoming a citizen, a brand-new certificate of naturalization, and, most importantly, instructions on how to register to vote, with a pamphlet that explained my rights as a new voter. In other words, a year ago, after ten years of living in this country as legal resident, I became a citizen and was finally given the opportunity to vote. Becoming a citizen was a truly significant event in my life, not only because I was finally allowed to participate in this nation’s elections, but, since I moved to this country before I turned eighteen, it also meant that this year would be my first time voting at all.

Another reason that I’m excited to vote this year is the fact that a woman is among my options for the presidency. As a woman, it makes me truly excited to imagine another woman in this position of power; I think it shows how far we have come in terms of gender equality. Nevertheless, I also understand that there is much still to be done to advance gender equality, and my hope is that having a woman as a president will result in more proactive efforts in reducing gender inequality.

What makes you shy away from the voting booth?

Even though I’m certainly eager to vote this year, I must admit that sometimes I doubt the importance of my vote. I often question whether my vote would actually make a difference, and this thought has often lessened my enthusiasm to vote. However, one quote has slowly changed this belief and steadily restored my interest in voting. As my mom just recently told me, “If you don’t vote, you can’t complain.”

Do you feel well informed about the issues and candidates? 

Unfortunately, due to the large number of responsibilities that I had to juggle this year—a job, school, internship—I’m not as informed as I wanted to be, with regard to this year’s important issues and competing candidates. Nevertheless, I have watched all of the presidential debates and have read some articles regarding this year’s elections.  

Does this election draw you in or alienate you?

Certain aspects of this election have certainly drawn me toward the process, such as the fact that a woman is in the race and that issues of significant personal importance are being discussed, such as immigration and abortion. However, this year a large quantity of controversial information has been uncovered about both candidates, and this alienates me from the election.

My Questions 

1. How much does my vote count?

2. How do you respond to the previous question if a youth asks it or holds the belief that her or his vote does not count, as an excuse for not voting?

3. How can you talk about politics with young people without uncovering your own political bias?

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