Voting is democracy in action. Make a plan. Exercise your right to vote. Need more information on the 2020 election? Visit our JJC Rocks the Vote website.

It’s election season, and as a College focused on issues of justice, this election means a great deal to us all. Many members of our community have already cast their vote by absentee ballot or through early voting; and with Election Day only days away, it’s crucial that all registered voters exercise their right to vote. “The City University of New York is proud of the role it plays in helping our diverse students find their voice and claim their seat at democracy’s table,” says CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez. Claiming that “seat” has a direct impact on our communities. Voting gives you a say on important issues such as: health care, criminal justice reform, student loan debt, climate change, immigration, wealth and education disparities. The impact an election has on our communities is too great not to vote. “Don’t let anyone tell you that voting doesn’t matter. Don’t give away your power or your hope. Instead channel your passion for justice through your actions,” says President Karol V. Mason, encouraging all registered voters to head to the polls. “By participating in the election process, in whatever way you can, you’re investing in the future of our country.”

In anticipation of Election Day 2020, we spoke with John Jay students to learn more about what this election means to them and how they plan to rock the vote.

Leyla Murad ’22
Major: Forensic Psychology
Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri

As a first-time voter, I feel a deep appreciation for those that came before me. When you exercise your right to vote, you voice your opinion and help create an impact in your community, city, state, and country. Each and every single one of us matters. Our voices matter. Our vote matters. We can each make a difference. Don’t let anyone or anything make you think differently. Your vote is your power. Use it.

Alexa Barisano ’23
Hometown: Howard Beach, Queens, New York
Major: Law and Society

I’m voting because I want to ensure the best future for myself, my friends, and my family. Voting is such a powerful tool and such a great way to share our views. Because of that I plan to vote early to ensure my ballot is counted and my voice is truly heard. 

Britney Brito ’23
Hometown: Queens, New York
Major: Political Science

I’m voting because the fate of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) depends on us. I am voting for immigrant community members who may not have the ability to vote but lean on us for change. I am voting because our civil rights, equality, health care, climate, education, and our future are at stake and on the line. The struggle for voting rights has been long and painful; we must remember and honor those who fought for our voting rights. In these moments, I find inspiration in connecting, volunteering, and getting out the vote (GOTV) with organizations like the Sister District Project, a nationally recognized non-profit that is working to end gerrymandering and build progressive power. Voting allows us to use our voices, hold administrations accountable, strive for change, and build a democracy that works for the many, not just the few. 

Romello Ford ’21
Major: Sociology
Hometown: Staten Island, New York

When you vote, you’re letting your community leaders know what you want to see in your communities. I am voting because I want to see my community get better. I want our leaders to invest in underrepresented and underserved communities. We need real transformation to take place on every level, but especially on the local level, to have a significant impact on the lives of our youth and on their future.

Taina Valentin ’23
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
Major: Political Science

I’m voting because those that came before us—women and people of color—fought for our right to vote and to ensure that our voices could be heard. If we don’t vote, someone else will make decisions for us about our future. Voting is a right, a privilege, and our civic duty. Voting is the first step we as citizens can take to creating positive change in this country.

Maria Ramos Esperanza ’22
Major: Criminology
Hometown: Bronx, New York

I’m voting because I’m representing all those people who can’t go to the polls and have their voices heard. Voting lets me be the voice for my family and friends who don’t have the opportunity to vote. I know casting my ballot will help out my community.

Briana Schmidt ’21
Majors: Forensic Psychology; Criminology
Hometown: Comfrey, Minnesota

I vote for the oppressed. I vote for the silenced voices. I have a platform and the privilege of voting, and it is an injustice to abuse that power. 

Tatyanna Robinson ’23
Hometown: Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York
Major: Forensic Psychology

I voted because I wanted to cast my vote for someone I know will fight climate change. I voted for someone who will be able to unite this country so our future generation will grow up in a loving, unbiased, and non-judgmental country.

Morgan DeGlopper ’24
Hometown: Bradenton, Florida
Major: International Criminal Justice

Voting is so important because it’s how we as citizens can have a say in our government. Especially in this election, voting isn't just about current issues but also the future of the nation. If you care about equality, activism, and change, voting is one way you can hold the government accountable to serve those causes. Your vote is your voice, use it to fight for what you care about.