Ensuring Your Right to Vote

Dear Billiken companions,

With fewer than 14 days until the Nov. 3rd election, it feels important to me to call out a point of concern: How will students who are in isolation or quarantine on Nov. 3rd vote?

Unfortunately, leaving isolation or quarantine will not be an option. We cannot risk further spread to our fellow Billikens nor others in our community, especially those who are the most vulnerable. That pains me to say, as someone who deeply values this civic responsibility. However, our public health experts and medical doctors assure me there is no other option. 

Except that there is . . .

You can do one of two things:

1. Make a plan right now to vote absentee –– if that option is available to you.
2. Recommit yourself to extra vigilance in following public health safeguards to ensure that you are healthy, un-exposed, and able to head to the polls on Nov. 3rd.

•  Mask up while studying with others.
• Mask up while hanging out with friends.
• Finish your meal within 15 minutes and put your mask back on as soon as you are finished eating, no matter how long you linger with friends.
• Wear your face mask between sips of coffee, tea or water.
• Stay six feet away from others –– while eating, while studying, while socializing.

With less than two weeks to go before Election day, the time to make your plan is now. The choices you make every day between now and Election day could mean the difference as to whether you are able to exercise your right to vote.

If you have any questions about your voter registration or what is on your ballot, you can find answers at the nonpartisan websites www.vote.org or www.vote411.org. If you need help with your absentee ballot or getting a ballot notarized, contact Dr. Leah Sweetman (leah.sweetman@slu.edu) in the Center for Service and Community Engagement. And as a reminder, if you live on campus and are registered to vote in the City of St. Louis, you will be able to vote on Nov. 3rd in the Simon Recreation Center.

Sincerely,

Debra Rudder Lohe, Ph.D. (she/her/hers)
Interim Vice President for Student Development