The General Election is on Tuesday, November 8 and everyone, especially students, are encouraged to cast their ballot and get their voice heard!
“We have seen a time of great polarization in our country, with some groups attempting to suppress the voices of others. This is a critical opportunity for citizens, particularly younger voters, to stand up for what they believe in, participate in the democratic process and exercise their fundamental right,” UH Mānoa Public Policy Center Director Colin Moore said.
“It is both cliched and true: voting really matters, and not merely about high profile national issues and candidates,” said Avi Soifer, William S. Richardson School of Law professor and former dean. “Whether it be climate change, racism, women’s rights, economic burdens, or freedom of expression, current controversies are very often resolved at the local and state level. And civil rights activists as well as people in the military did die to preserve your right to vote.”
UH Mānoa Law Professor Andrea Freeman added, “Over the last year we have seen political moves that dramatically affect us all, from banning books, criminalizing critical education and gender affirmation, and allowing more guns in the streets to taking away our freedom to make decisions about our bodies. It is essential to vote to make our voices heard and enable reform. There is power in voting!”
Voting reminders
Registered voters should have received a ballot in the mail. You may return your ballot by mail or at a designated drop box within your county. Ballots must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.
Voter service centers are also available up until Election Day. Services include accessible in person voting and same day registration.
Visit the State of Hawaiʻi Office of Elections website for a list of ballot drop boxes and voter service centers.
If you have not received your ballot, you are urged to call your county elections division for assistance.
Related story: UH Hilo students produce PSA on importance of voting
- Hawaiʻi County: (808) 961-8277
- Maui County: (808) 270-7749
- Kauaʻi County: (808) 241-4800
- City and County of Honolulu: (808) 768-3800
Sign up to track your ballot online. For more information on the General Election, visit the State of Hawaiʻi Office of Elections website.
