A colleague told me yesterday that in a conversation with some students about the presidential election, not only had they not yet registered to vote, a few did not know who Mitt Romney is, and did not seem concerned about their ignorance of the presidential candidates. Political ignorance is unacceptable! Whether you prefer one candidate or another, whether you are a rapid Republican or ardent Democrat, you have a serious obligation of citizenship to be informed and to vote.
We expect ALL Trinity students to have and express their points of view; to be engaged with the great issues of our times; to understand the vital role that active citizens must play to sustain the health of our nation. Not knowing the names of the people running for high office is not only shocking, it’s just inexcusable.
Equally inexcusable is not knowing where the candidates stand on the key issues that will affect our lives and our families’ opportunities for decades to come.
What do you know about the candidates’ positions on student financial aid? Do you realize the looming dangers to Pell Grants and federal student loans? Haven’t been following that story? Get with it!
What is your opinion on the healthcare debate? What do you mean you don’t care about Medicare? Really? You will have a rude awakening on the day you need it. Pay attention!
What do you care about the candidates’ plans to improve the job market? Do you expect to get a job after you graduate, or to get a better job even while you’re in school? Then, really, you should be paying attention to the candidates’ positions on job creation.
The list goes on — economic incentives, tax reform, relief for homeowners in foreclosure — these may sound like arcane topics to some citizens, but to students enrolled at Trinity, they are real issues that have long-term consequences for your lives and the future opportunities you and your families will have.
This week, as part of Constitution week, we have an ongoing series of events to elevate the level of political awareness and engagement on campus. A voter registration drive is ongoing.
Today in Social Hall at 10:30 am, the Political Science Program is hosting a speaker and program on voting rights in D.C., a very urgent topic for many of our students.
We have also created a special website on Election 2012 linked to our home page —- visit this website often for more information about the campaign, the issues, the candidates and the schedule for debates.
Let’s get everyone at Trinity engaged with the issues!
Whatever position you wish to take, take it!
Whichever candidate you favor, be engaged!
If your friend says she doesn’t know or doesn’t care, call her out!
YOU can make a difference, but only if you are informed, engaged, and take voting seriously.