"What's Your Favorite Thing About Voting?"

quotes compiled by Catherine Petty

It’s finally almost here…Election Day! Colorado has seen unprecedented voter turnout already - a couple of weeks ago, early voting numbers were 2400% higher (yes, you read that correctly) than they were at the same time in 2016. We’re also seeing record-breaking mail-in voting numbers nationwide. In the spirit of these exciting times, I decided to ask CUSDM students and faculty what their favorite thing about voting is. For me, it has to be my semi-annual walk to the ballot box near my house. The closest one is about a mile away and it makes for a nice little excursion. Here’s what everyone else had to say…

“My favorite thing about voting is having an impact on choosing representatives that stand by your beliefs, whatever they may be!” - Steph Guimaraes, DS2

“Every election I get to learn more about my own views and beliefs on different issues while researching the candidates” - Gitika Virdee, DS3

“My favorite part about voting is reading about other candidates and reflecting on what is most important to me and be most beneficial for the people around me. Voting is one of many important ways to not just talk the talk but walk the walk!” - Julia Kim, DS1

“Voting always reminds me that we are privileged to have a say in our government!” - Dr. Dan Wilson, Restorative Dentistry faculty

“I love having a (albeit small) voice in the way our country, state, and local government is run. I also know that voting is a privilege, and I think it’s really important to speak up not only for my own future, but for the futures of so many other people whose voices are silenced. It’s really easy to get caught up in the idea that our vote doesn’t matter, but it’s so much more than who will be president; individual votes matter greatly for state and local governments. That’s why I will always, always encourage people to use their voice too.” - Kendall Peck, DS2

“I see problems in our communities and our country that need to be addressed, and voting is one of the ways we can make sustainable changes in an equitable way.” - Alfred Li, DS3

“The ability to vote and let my voice be heard is amazing and empowering! I am thankful for the many people before me that fought for my right to vote. Especially this year as it marks the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage.” - Manti Lehn, Surgical Dentistry faculty

“In past years, it’s been fun to go in person and vote because you get to see all the other people who are there too. It always makes me happy when I see other people engaged in voting, and I wish our systems made that a reality for everyone. (Hopefully we can change that during our lifetimes.) This year specifically, though, I received the whole 2020 ballot information booklet (never knew that was a thing some states did — my home state of New Mexico certainly doesn’t) and that was AWESOME! I loved how well it explained everything and helps people make as informed of decisions as they can. I was so surprised and excited when I got it.” - Hannah Paul, DS2

“Voting encourages me to do research on important legislation that directly affects me and others in my community. Once I have done the research, I get to decide what I believe and then take action to change it!” - Lauren Mendicino, DS3

“Making sure my voice is heard!” - anonymous DS2

“My favorite thing about voting? Knowing I exercised my voice and had an impact on the way I want the future to look. Elections may not always go the way we want, but if you are able to participate in the process and choose not to, then you can’t complain about the outcome. I’ve been a voter for more than 20 years and have not missed an election yet! Why do I vote? I vote with my 7 year old son in mind. I want him to inherit a world that is better than what currently exists; the society more free and more just, the community more safe, and the environment more clean. When it’s not election season? I still vote, but I vote with my wallet. I identify companies whose philosophies and business practices align with my opinions on the issues I care about, and I support them by being a loyal customer.“ - Dr. Lindsey Yates, Restorative Dentistry faculty

“Being able to participate in our democracy and being able to weigh in on issues and who you want to represent you.” - Maddy Parris-Bacon, DS2

“Aside from also voting on a mosquito chair this year (which I found hilarious and #justfloridathings) I’d say having a role (however small) in shaping the future of my country is so cool. As a student, I don’t get the time to be as actively involved in my community as I would like. However, exercising my ability to cast a vote in matters that matter helps me to build a future that I can only hope is a positive one. I enjoy the fact that Americans from all life experiences and backgrounds have the right to exercise their unique opinions on how best to lead our country. I am so grateful to be able to use my own unique viewpoint to contribute to meaningful change.” - Sierra Rose, DS3

“It’s important to remind ourselves that we are the ones in control of how we want to be represented. Those in power are there because we chose them to be. My favorite thing about voting is having the power to choose who will represent me.” - Ginneth Trujillo, DS2

“Voting is your way to contribute with the democracy; not every country offers this privilege” - Dr. Fernando Astorga, Restorative Dentistry faculty

“My favorite part is voicing my support for candidates and initiatives that will demonstrate the values that I think make the world a better place.” - Jake Holtzmann, DS3

Feeling inspired yet? You’ve got less than a week left to make your voice heard. Don’t forget…and vote early while you’re at it!