8 November 2016: Election day is finally here.
Over the past few months, the election campaign has been one of the most divisive and unedifying in American history. Today, Americans take to the polls to cast their vote for who they want to become the leader of the free world – Hilary Clinton or Donald Trump.
In light of this, we asked some of our writers to share their views on the importance of voting in today’s election.
Here’s what they had to say:
“In a country where every voice can be heard those who vote ensure that in at least this one way, their voices are heard. Governments are supposed to represent you; if you don’t express your wishes about who you want representing you, you will not be represented as intended. A vote is a powerful form of expression and powerful form of expression and power. The truth is that we are rarely asked our wishes or opinions about things that matter; when we are asked to voice our wishes, we have a civic duty to do so” – Jun Kit Man
“This election is not only about America, it is about the world, it is about all of us. Go out and vote!” – Oyku Ataman
“The 2016 election is high stakes for many communities in the U.S., particularly for Asian American and Pacific Islanders. There are so many important issues on the ballot this year, from affordable housing, funding for schools, to gun control. We also have a presidential candidate who has incited a wave of xenophobia and hatred toward immigrants. Those of us with the privilege to vote, have the opportunity to stand up to this intolerance. I hope that you will join me in voting this Tuesday!” – Casey Tran
“The result of this election will have a knock-on effect around the world. Think about what’s at stake, go out and use your vote wisely.” – Chor Man
“I know it’s the lesser of two evils but use your vote wisely and make sure that a certain sexist, racist, egotistical megalomaniac doesn’t get voted in as leader of one of the worlds most powerful country” – Chor Man
“I know voting seems trivial considering how the electoral college works, but change doesn’t happen without action. If you think the government isn’t doing anything for you now, if you silence yourself, you’re only guaranteeing it.” – Janine Palencia
“Whether you believe it or not, your voice matters. This election has been a maelstrom of controversy, corruption, and pure comedy (through disbelief). But no matter how disenfranchised and lost you feel, those little bubbles you fill in DO matter. So GOTV!” – Joie Ha
“For all those who have fought and died for our rights — to vote, to believe, to love, to dream — this election is to uphold their cause. To not vote is to take all our earned freedoms for granted.” – Amelia Enberg
“I don’t want to sway people on how they should vote but only say you really got to pick your poison here. One is extremely toxic (and you all know who I am referring to).. I also want to do a shout out to all AAPI’s to GET OUT TO VOTE TOMORROW – #AAPIVotes” – Erin Chew
“Many people often view the election as a chance to pick the upcoming president. And while that reason is significant, this election is also important because of the state propositions. It is crucial that we all vote because there are many measures that directly affect our everyday lives. For example, in California, our votes determine whether or not housing services should be provided to the homeless, if funding should be increased to improve schools, if plastic bags need to be banned, and so much more. Every election, including this one, is important because our vote will implement changes that will impact millions of people. “ – Sarina Wang
“To the people who say that their vote won’t count whether they support the Republicans, Democrats or an Independent: The only wasted vote is to not vote.” – Sarah Maclean Morris
“Vote because it’s important to remember that there are people out there that don’t have the same luxury as you, that have lived and died for that right. Vote in their memory, if nothing else.” – Kate Chan
