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Let’s Vote in November’s Elections
A Letter to Chinese Americans in Georgia
Dear fellow Chinese friends,
October 4th, 2010 is last day to register to vote in this coming November Election. November 2nd, 2010 is General/Nonpartisan/Special Election and Runoff.
Time flies faster than you can image, and time's running out to register to vote. With the deadline for November election just days away, it is time to register to vote! Association of Chinese Professionals encourages each of you to register now. (See http://sos.georgia.gov/elections ... ion.htm#Registering ).
Why do I need to register to vote?
1. Voting is a right and privilege of American citizens.
We come to this Promised Land to have the opportunity to be more involved in the political process. Citizens should have a voice, and the right to vote gives us that chance. The law will not be automatically formulated on our behalf. In addition, law formulation does not guarantee there will be no problems. However, as long as we persist in reform and adhere to the electoral process from the start; the law can be formulated and enforced for the happiness of the people and the prosperity of the nation. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 protects every American against racial discrimination in voting. The Act stands for the principle that everyone's vote is equal, and that neither race nor language should shut any of us out of the political process.
2. Voting is an obligation of American citizens.
Voting is a promise and a commitment to act as responsible citizens for the betterment of our communities. Being US citizens by choice, we deserve to enjoy both freedom and responsibilities. Chinese Americans are part of the U.S. not outsiders. Responsible citizens are not spectators. Though we are minorities, our action and US government’s action are equally important. Taking little time to register, and taking a little time to research electoral system and candidates, you will find that voting is the best thing you will do for your life in a this country.
The voter campaign among Chinese Americans is to raise our awareness. Each of us has a certain level of social responsibility. Our dream coming true in America has to be realized through this effort. Voting is not only a right and privilege but an obligation in every way. We will be more confident and proud as a generation of immigrants from China if we allow ourselves to become more involved in our government. It is the social responsibility of citizens of Chinese American descent. By engaging in voting we can build faith in our decision to choose what makes our lives better.
3. Voting is the way to promote our social status.
In 2006, the Chinese American population numbered approximately 3.6 million. They constitute 1.2% of the United States as a whole. Chinese American voting rate in this country is considerably low. In recent years, this situation has improved, but Chinese Americans want to secure their share of political rights, there is still a long way to go. Awareness of political participation need to be further enhanced. While our numbers are perceived as small, we can make a huge difference if we come out strong on Election Day.
It is not unreasonable to wonder why there is such a small political influence of Chinese Americans or Chinese immigrants in the U.S.! Chinese immigrants are exceptionally bookish and much more likely to attend college for higher degrees and high paid jobs. The correlation between educational level of individuals and political influence is insignificant. The low voting rate certainly is helpless for improving the social status of Chinese Americans. Jewish Americans vote at closer to 100% rate of their population. In US, Chinese are like Jews in term of individual success in many aspects such as income, education, employment, business, etc., except in voting. This is one of many reasons why we must to act to increase our voting rate.
Shall I exercise my voting right?
Individual citizens are not required to vote, but the exercising your right to vote is a key tool for making your voice heard by the government or decision makers for our interests.
What is our goal?
Our goal is to ensure that 80% of the Chinese Americans who receive this message register to vote.
What should I do now?
Please do not waste your right and privilege. Take Action Now!
First, let us educate ourselves and others who have voting rights in November’s Election. Second, register to vote today to make your voice heard.
Everyone’s ballot is counted. Your vote matters. Dear fellow Chinese friends, let’s all vote.
Theresa Qian
Voting Promoting Committee
Association of Chinese Professionals in Atlanta
The following links may help you to register to vote:
How to Register?
http://sos.georgia.gov/elections/voting_information.htm#Registering to Vote
How to vote?
http://sos.georgia.gov/elections/voting_information.htm#Voting on Election Day
2010 Elections and Voter Registration Calendar
http://www.sos.ga.gov/elections/elections_events.htm |
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发表于 2010-9-29 12:12:29