Jack Riley ’24
For the first time in their lives, many seniors at the Episcopal Academy voted at the ballot box on November 7. The power of the American government is derived from the people. Each citizen’s vote shapes the leadership and policies of the government, hence forming a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Additionally, engaging in the electoral process enables individuals to uphold the integrity of the democratic system, which encourages accountability among elected officials. The difference between liberty and tyranny is the representation of the people. Some believe that by not voting, you are essentially forfeiting your right to dictate government affairs. Others argue that when both candidates do not represent a voter’s interests, not voting (or voting for a third party candidate) is a good way to express disdain. Regardless, voting is a widespread method for individual citizens to affect government.
Expressing his firm belief in citizens voting, co-leader of the Young Independents Club Nik Athwal ’24 states “We live in a state where government operates through the will of the people as it is a Republican style. My AP Government class taught me the importance of people imposing their will on the government. We are lucky to live in a country where we have a say in what goes on in our government. So, a good citizen should vote.”
Adding to Nik’s point, Kevin Groenhuysen ’24 believes earnestly that “the privilege of voting is one that I will not take lightly. It is my duty to my fellow citizens and the beautiful country of the United States of America to express my viewpoints. It is pitiful that so many young people in this generation forfeit their ability to vote and I think that we raise more awareness in the community.”
Since voting is a right that every 18+ year-old citizen holds, EA students foster initiatives to encourage participation. Two students, Aryav Dhar ’24 and Dylan Unruh ’24 ran a voting drive to encourage participation in the upcoming election. This very successful campaign persuaded over 100 voters (both students at EA and family members) to vote. Noting the importance of the cause and his pride in the result, Unruh states “It was an awesome experience. The gratification I felt every time someone new registered to vote was truly remarkable. I really feel like we made an impact.”
VI Form dean Mrs. Murray similarly sent a grade-wide email to the senior class encouraging participation and attaching a link to the PA voter registration website. The email also expressed that those who are not eligible to vote “can also be heard and make an impact on this critical election by turning out [their] family members and friends who are able to vote.”
While showing up to the ballot box is important, being educated on who you’re voting for is equally important. In the words of John F. Kennedy, “he ignorance of one voter in a democracy impairs the security of all.” Noting the importance of making educated votes, Connor Shanahan ’24 says, “I fear that oftentimes people just vote down party lines and don’t actually take time to evaluate each candidate. People should really understand who they’re voting.”