What November 2nd Means
at Novi High School
October, 2004

 
From club debates to political newspapers, everything at Novi High School seems to be centered on the upcoming presidential election. While most students at Novi may not even be old enough to vote, teens have engulfed themselves in the propaganda that every election brings with it.

Many adults will not exercise their right to vote this November.  In fact, only 53% of registered voters actually cast their ballot in the 2000 election. While that number is up from an all time low in 1996, Americans still seem to take for granted what voice they can have in the government. The good news is that most students at Novi High School are getting involved in some way, shape or form this election year.

The Political Activities Club was organized last year to provide a forum for students to discuss important topical issues. They also distributed a monthly newspaper where students could voice their opinion through articles of their choice. Participants in this club demonstrated their freedom of speech and of the press while encouraging others to do the same. Several other groups in the school, like Teen Court, have discussed national issues such as the War in Iraq and Flag Burning.

For younger voters, determining where each candidate stands on certain issues have been key factors in figuring out which party to support. There are many questions on topics such as Health Care, Abortion, and Homeland Security that remain unanswered. Issues are an important aspect in any year, and 2004 is no exception.

Proposal 1 challenges voters to decide about gambling issues in Michigan, while Proposal 2 asks us to decide on what language defines a legal marriage. These are both changes to our state constitution and very important issues to be decided by a public vote

The future depends on choices made today. Students realize this, and that is why they are interested in the election. Even at a young age, our elementary schools are holding mock elections. I remember the 1996 election, when students at Novi Woods were encouraged to make posters supporting their favorite candidate. The hallways and classrooms were filled with Bob Dole and Bill Clinton political posters; but being the comedian, my poster was the only one in school for Ross Perot.

Every American, young and old, is watching and waiting as Election Day approaches. Novi students are even more excited because they have the day off on November 2nd. Yet, I know that along with many other kids, my television will be tuned to the news stations. Whether George Bush is reelected or John Kerry moves into the White House, student’s care who is going to be the next president.

These last few years have been extremely troublesome for this country. So remember, Democrat or Republican, conservative or liberal, Americans need to remember their responsibility to vote on November 2nd.

(c) 2004 the Novi Information Network