We are just 26 days away from Election Day, and you only have 11 days left to register to vote.
Are you still undecided about how you will vote this year?
Take a look at CAIR-CA’s voter guide with congressional and state scorecards and a proposition guide.
Read below for some insight from one of our Voter Engagement Coordinators and Election Volunteers on why this election counts. They have been on the front lines engaging the community with these issues weekly.
CAIR Staff & Volunteers Reflect on Elections and Civic Engagement
In conversation with:
Zoha Raza, Voter Engagement Coordinator
Umm-e-Usman, Elections Volunteer
Rhonda Itaoui, Elections Volunteer
Why are you voting?
Zoha: I am voting because we have gone through so much to get to this level of civic engagement, and I want my voice to be heard. It is essential for us not only to choose a president, but to vote on propositions and in local elections that effect us directly.
Umm-e-Usman: I am voting so that I can be proactive and have a say in the future of my country. I don’t want to have to suffer the regrets of lost opportunities.
Why is it important to vote in this election?
Zoha: There are two names that we think of when this election comes to mind. It can be frightening to think of what can happen to the well being of this country if left in the wrong hands. But here’s the thing: we can change it. We have the power to vote for or against things that will hurt the Muslim community. All it takes is to educate yourself and go in on election day to give your vote.
Umm-e-Usman: What happens in this election will affect not only the Muslims but everyone in America and worldwide. Benefiting humanity and averting harm is a fundamental Islamic principle.
Rhonda: It is important for Muslims to highlight the power they hold in numbers in the US, and the fact that their vote has impact on the overall political future of the country. By symbolically highlighting the significance of a Muslim vote, the ability for Muslims to influence future policy, decisions and campaigns will be enhanced.
What have been your highlights from CAIR’s civic engagement efforts this year?
Zoha: Going to masjids and meeting different people has been life changing. I have seen the devotion and unity of the Muslim community and it continues to inspire me. The civic engagement efforts this year have been full of productivity thanks to the amazing staff and volunteers of CAIR, along with the great responses we have had from the Muslim community.
Umm-e-Osman: Kudos to CAIR! I’ve realized that CAIR makes the U.S. a safer and better place for Muslims and their posterity. It’s the most effective advocacy organization for Muslims in the US.
Rhonda: Being personally engaged in encouraging U.S. citizens to vote via Jummah Outreach, in an election that has the ability to shape most of the Western world.