UM-Flint Political Science Explores Voter Rights

Why does voting in an election matter? What does it mean to have the right to vote? How does the United States Constitution affect the rights of voters?

The UM-Flint Political Science Department will be holding a discussion to answer these questions and more as part of their annual recognition of Constitution Day.

On Thursday, October 13, from 4-6pm, faculty, staff, and students will gather in 355 French Hall for "Voting Rights in a Brave New World." This discussion and question-and-answer session aims to get voters thinking about their rights in preparation for the upcoming presidential election.

"The Department of Political Science regularly hosts thought-provoking events on issues of relevance to the Constitution and its modern interpretation and historical roots," said lecturer Kim Saks-McManaway. "This year being an election year, the topic of voting rights in a modern context seemed appropriate. This is especially true given the myriad of voter rights cases in the courts."

UM-Flint students are excepted to play an active role in the event, and to make full use of the Q & A session with department faculty.

Andrew Roth, a dual enrolled student from Flushing, MI, is expecting to take part. Said Roth, "Voting is about more than helping to elect your candidate of choice; voting is about being a socially conscious citizen. If we allow our voices to go unheard now, then we eventually sign away all of our power. No longer do we have the ability to be a part of the discussion of issues that affect our day to day lives."

Jordan Tiffany, a graduate student from Davidson, MI, added, "I vote because that is the only way to get change. We may not immediately get the change that we want, but nothing will ever get better just sitting out and being apathetic towards the process."

All members of the UM-Flint campus are invited to "Voting Rights in a Brave New World," held Thursday, October 13, from 4-6pm in 355 French Hall. Pizza and salad served at 4pm; discussion begins at 4:30pm.

For more information on the Political Science Department and the ways in which they are engaging the campus and community, visit umflint.edu/polsci or call 810.762.3470,