Election Day is coming up on Nov. 5, and American citizens are on edge, eagerly awaiting the decision that will determine the next president. In this pivotal moment, participation at the polls becomes more essential than ever, as every vote will help shape the nation’s future and ensure citizens’ voices are heard.
As a handful of Emerson seniors become eligible to vote just before Election Day, they are thrilled to embrace this new opportunity for the advancement of the country.
“Being eligible to vote now that I’m 18 feels really cool,” Aaminah Ali, 12, said. “I feel like this is a great way to start adulthood and I am honored that doing something as small as voting can make a big change in this country.”
However, this generation is uniquely disposed of with the power of social media, which can significantly influence their perspectives on voting and political views. Platforms such as Instagram and TikTok allow for the swift spread of information, opinions, and even misinformation, molding the way young voters engage with politics.
“As a new voter, I really hope that other new voters educate themselves and try to form their own opinions on certain topics since I know social media has a huge part in forming opinions for us,” Ali said. “I’ve noticed that I too, can be easily convinced by social media, but I am trying my best to educate myself to use other resources as well.”
Biology teacher Sayna Monadjemi talks about how literacy about presidential candidates is lacking for American citizens these days.
“I think that there is enough education about the voting process, but I don’t think there is enough education on the candidates,” Monadjemi said. “People need to do their research, but life gets busy sometimes! It would be nice for schools and public libraries to have unbiased resources, such as ‘highlights of a debate,’ to help individuals with busy lives stay up to date with candidates’ actions.”
Ultimately, voter participation is fundamental as it contributes to the policies and leadership that will govern the nation’s direction and impact issues revolving around the economy and society.
“Politicians are important decision makers that affect our day-to-day life a lot more than we realize sometimes, from the cost of living to our education system and so much more, which is why we should educate ourselves on who’s running for an election and vote for people that we believe would make a positive influence to our lives,” Monadjemi said.
