Our Right to VOTE
As a recent graduate of Santa Clara University, I just received this email from SCU's president, Father Paul Locatelli. It really struck a chord for me, as I realized while reading his note how easy it is to forget that we are extremely fortunate in the U.S. to have the constitutional right to vote.
I admit that sometimes it seems pointless to try to change things, but every November we get our one shot to do something that actually could make a difference. So before you apathetically ignore going to the polls this November 4th, think about the Mugabe opposition and the recent election in Zimbabwe.
So please VOTE! You know how I feel - if you don't vote in the presidential election, then you don't get to complain about him/her later!
Love,
Eileen :D
-----Original Message-----
From: On Behalf Of Paul Locatelli
Sent: Wednesday, September 17, 2008 5:55 PM
Subject: Constitution Day and Please VOTE in the November election.
Dear Students,
On September 17, 2008, our nation celebrates Constitution Day. It marks the 221st anniversary of the signing of our constitution that established our federal system of government and delineated both the government's power and the fundamental rights belonging to all people who reside within the borders. It is an appropriate time to comment briefly on the importance of engaged citizenship and the challenges facing us as a nation.
As college students, you certainly recognize the challenges. In our country we are increasingly divided and polarized and cannot seem to agree on the best solutions to some very pressing problems: health care reform, immigration, the war in Iraq, the growing disparity between rich and poor, global warming, religious, ethnic, and cultural differences. And these are not just US problems; they are global problems requiring global solutions.
If you believe in the United States and the idea of representative democracy as gifted to us in our Constitution, you know the importance of every presidential election. For many of you, this will be your first opportunity to participate in the election of a president. Please take the time to educate yourself on the issues and the candidates who will be on the ballots this November. And look for opportunities to participate so that we have the kind of leaders you want -- leaders who put the needs of the country ahead of party and know how to get things done. In short, please VOTE
A Santa Clara education provides you with the needed knowledge and skills, moral compass, and desire to act and serve in a way that will enable you to make a difference in the lives of others and help address the challenges we face locally and globally. Please remember that, from those to whom much has been given, much will be expected.
Personal regards,
Paul Locatelli, S.J.
President
