Students at Cal Poly Pomona have been actively engaging in voter registration efforts, with Melvyn Hernandez leading the charge outside the Bronco Student Center. Hernandez, along with volunteers from various colleges and universities in California, is working to educate fellow students on the upcoming elections and encourage them to participate in the democratic process.
The focus is not only on registering students to vote but also on providing them with information about key election deadlines, polling locations, and down-ballot contests that may impact their lives. With the goal of increasing voter turnout among young voters, efforts are being made to make the voting process more accessible and understandable for students.
Various nonpartisan voter-turnout initiatives are being implemented at California State University campuses, community colleges, and private schools. These efforts aim to empower students to make informed decisions and participate in shaping their future through the electoral process.
The importance of colleges in supporting young voters is highlighted by programs like the California University and College Ballot Bowl Competition, which promotes voter registration through intercollegiate rivalry. On-campus voting locations and ballot drop-off sites are also being set up to facilitate students’ participation in the electoral process.
Youth voter turnout has been on the rise in recent years, with a significant increase in the participation of voters aged 18 to 29. Despite this progress, there is still room for improvement, especially among college students. By providing resources and information on voting, colleges are playing a crucial role in encouraging students to engage in civic activities.
Efforts to educate students about the importance of voting are being carried out through various events and initiatives, such as voter registration booths, panels on ballot propositions, and forums with local candidates. By offering nonpartisan information and support, colleges are helping students navigate the complex electoral landscape and make informed choices.
As the election season unfolds, students are encouraged to look beyond the presidential race and pay attention to local and statewide contests that directly impact their communities. Propositions on issues like education funding and minimum wage increases are particularly relevant to students and deserve careful consideration.
Overall, the goal is to empower students to become active participants in the democratic process and make their voices heard through voting. By providing resources, information, and support, colleges are laying the foundation for a more engaged and informed generation of voters.
“We are not trying to get in anyone’s face and say, ‘This is so important. Why aren’t you doing this?’ We’re just trying to drop little hints and pebbles to get people to think about, ‘Oh right, this is coming up. I need to remember to do this,'” said Michelle Ellis Viorato, the campus’s civic and voter empowerment coordinator.