The Change Agent LogoTheChangeAgentSkip Navigation
Skip Navigation
   


NELRC Logo

Do You Vote? What Are Your Responsibilities?

Listen to the audio file above each word by double clicking on the black arrow next to the speaker icon. [Flash Player Required ] If you prefer to save and download the mp3, you can right click on the link and Save Target As...

IrisYes, I vote because it is one of the most important rights I have.
-- Iris M Santiago
Download the MP3.


Suhail ArceDo I vote? Yes, I vote because my vote makes a difference. I take responsibility in my community by not throwing garbage on the street, by taking care of older people in my community by helping them cross the streets, and by helping young children if they are lost in the community and take them to the police man. -- Suhail Arce
Download the MP3.


RameshNo, I don't vote because I don't like rules. But I respect my neighbor. I respect women at my work. I went to jury duty. And I pay taxes.
--Ramesh
Download the MP3.



Jose OrtizI don't vote because I don't like to vote. I don't know who the mayor of the city is. I don't know who my local representative is. I take responsibility in my community by paying my bills, taking care of my kids, and going to school. -- Jose Ortiz
Download the MP3.


Denis Rodriguez Voting doesn't matter because it's just an inside job. My responsibilities are my children. I make sure they do their school work and keep going on the right path. -- Dennis Rodriguez
Download the MP3.

These quotes are from ABE and GED students in the Holyoke Adult Learning Opportunities (HALO) Center in Holyoke, MA. They were collected by Margaret Boyle (Pre-GED and GED teacher) and Kelly Martin (Beginning Literacy and ABE teacher) as part of classroom writings and discussions about voting and elections. Glenn Yarnell (Lead Teacher/ESOL instructor) photographed the students and recorded the audio clips. This was the first time that HALO students utilized digital recording technology as part of class, and it sparked many ideas for future projects.

Discussion Questions and Activities

  1. Do you vote? Why or why not?
  2. What are your responsibilities to yourself, your family, and your community?
  3. Do you think voting is a right or a responsibility or both or neither?
  4. Make a list of the actions you think contribute to a strong democracy.
Order this and other issues of The Change Agent here.