Nov. 5, 2024, marked the day that determined what America’s next four years will look like. Students were able to flock to the voting booth in Kryzsko Commons and color in the circle of their choice.
Their contribution to the polls may seem insignificant to some in a vast ocean of opinions, but their vote represents all they stand for. We know it is important to vote and fulfill our civic duty, but where were students able to do this, and how does it work? Not only that, but how are students handling as political tensions rock the nation?
On Monday, Nov. 4, an email was sent out to all Winona State students containing valuable information on where and when to vote. Students were directed to many resources that detailed where to find your voting location, how to confirm your home address before voting, how to register to vote, and when and where to vote, whether that be on campus or in your state.
Students who wanted to cast their vote conveniently were able to vote in Kryzsko Commons during the usual polling hours from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Others opted to vote in the Winona County Courthouse. Aspiring voters were asked to bring a form of photo ID and a confirmed address to register. Once checked in, you would be handed a privacy folder containing a ballot ready for the voter to personalize. From the privacy of patriotic cardboard separators to striped voting booths, thousands of hopeful voters made their way through the ant trail, putting democracy into action.
Regardless of a boiling political atmosphere that’s volatile to the touch, many college students still long for connection and conversation with those with opposing views. To exemplify how we similarly seek out peace and all hold legitimate concerns, two college students share their takes on the election. Daisy Darr is a first-year student at Winona State majoring in nursing who wonders how Americans will respond to the results.
“My concern would be how the losing side would react and how that would affect the country.” Darr said.
Sophia Furth is a second-year student majoring in psychology with a minor in music who was concerned with voters being informed in their decision.
“You should understand who you are voting for and where you stand on issues. Don’t just fill in the bubbles; know why you are filling in the bubbles.” Furth said.
Both agree that tolerance and compassion play a big role in communicating through sensitive times. “I think college students should treat each other with respect and privacy about disclosing their vote as well as respecting them as a person and not what side they are on.” Darr said.
Furth held a similar sentiment and said “Even if you disagree with someone, respect them as a person. Try to be kind and support each other. Don’t demonize difference.”
Respectful conversation, civility, and positive engagement are the cornerstones of a functioning college campus. It is a standard that Winona State holds dear, but it’s up to the students to create an environment of understanding.
As stated in a recent email to students by Dr. Mohamed Ahmed, the Associate Vice President for Equity and Inclusive Excellence, “Each of us plays an important role in creating a welcoming environment here at Winona State University… Let us all continue to work collaboratively—honoring both our freedoms and responsibilities—to create a campus climate where everyone feels respected, safe, and supported.”
To move forward with peace and goodwill we must foster a heart of understanding within ourselves and let these times open doors to possible connections rather than bar us from humanity.
