What Our Vote Everywhere Ambassadors Are Saying About #CollegeDebate16
Four Vote Everywhere Ambassadors, representing Arizona State University, Miami Dade College, Montclair State University, and UC Berkeley, recently joined their peers at Dominican University of California for #CollegeDebate16. The program aims to encourage student involvement in political dialogue and bring attention to issues that matter to young people by drafting questions for the upcoming presidential debates. Scroll down to read about their experience.
Cinnamon Williams, Miami Dade College ’17
What was it like participating in #CollegeDebate16?
Enriching is the word that comes to mind when thinking about my experience. In Miami, where civic engagement is low, it felt good to be around people my age who are educated on key issues. People always say that Millennials don’t care about politics but rarely do I hear them asking why. I wish that this delegation was implemented every year so that our voices are heard.
If you could ask the presidential candidates one question what would it be?
How will your policies address the injustices of environmental damages on vulnerable, low-income, minority groups and ensure accountability of both government officials and private industry?
Noor Waseem, Montclair State University ’17
What was it like participating in #CollegeDebate16?
Participating in #CollegeDebate16 was a really cool opportunity because I got to meet students from around the nation. We gathered to speak, to listen, to discuss, and to debate. Collectively, we were able to talk with efficiency about the issues and the specifics that pertain to them without getting held up over the drama that politics is susceptible to. This event exposed me to new insights for people who I may not necessarily agree with, but now understand, and for that I am ever grateful!
If you could ask the presidential candidates one question what would it be?
What is your plan for aiding the employment of skilled immigrants and refugees in their respective fields
Sarah Funes, UC Berkeley ’16
What was it like participating in #CollegeDebate16?
My first experience in June was a lot more positive than this second meetup. Everything felt rushed and there was no real discourse or debate. Disability, an issue near and dear to me, was only discussed once. I had an opportunity to speak about it during the town hall but I was so far back it was hard to hear me. As the only visibly disabled person there I found that to be a problem. Despite all of that it was nice to have my voice heard.
If you could ask the presidential candidates one question what would it be?
How do you plan to address disabled people in the areas of education, housing, and criminal justice reform?
Victoria Grijalva Ochoa, Arizona State University ’19
What was it like participating in #CollegeDebate16?
#CollegeDebate16 was an incredible experience – from getting to meet students across the country to discussing the issues that matter most to us. I loved being able to talk to people that both shared my views and challenged them, because it allowed me to really understand my own beliefs. CD16 demonstrated that not only are college students engaged in the political process, but they’re also willing and capable of making a difference. I’m very happy to have been able to participate in a national initiative that sought to amplify my voice and put it to use.
If you could ask the presidential candidates one question what would it be?
What will you do to reduce the recidivism and mass incarceration rates in communities where poverty and violence are prevalent?