The American Democracy Project (ADP) was encouraging students to vote by hosting a voter registration drive at TAMUK’s Student Union Building on Wednesday, Sept. 25. The drive was from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in front of the University Bookstore and gave students a chance to register if they hadn’t already by bringing registration to them instead of making them go out to do it.
ADP sought to inspire students to become voters in order to make their voices heard by casting their ballots this election season.
“They’re going to bring their voices. Our generation is upcoming, and I feel like every generation should vote so it’ll bring better odds and more diversity within voting,” Jazmyn Ongpoy, music education major at TAMUK participating in the drive, said.
Participants at the event were assisted with the registration process and informed of all the requirements and deadlines.
Along with ADP, Mariana Casarez, Democratic candidate for State Representative, and her mother Janie Mendoza were present and informing students why it’s important for them to be prepared to vote this fall.
This drive gave students the opportunity to register in between classes and lunchbreaks instead of having to go out of their way to do so.
“The courthouse is intimidating to anybody. This way, you’re all already here, let’s go ahead and set it up, it’s convenient for everybody,” Mendoza said.
The ADP will continue holding voter registration drives at different campuses, inspiring students and other people to vote and make a difference. As campaigning for the upcoming presidential election goes on, ADP hopes that they see an increase in young voters.
“How we register to vote is the foundation of our future and if we do not use our voice, then there is no imprint for us in the future. One vote is just one vote, but one vote matters,” Casarez said.