Saint Mary’s Prepares for a Historic General Election
As anticipation builds toward November 5, members of the SMC campus community are embracing the democratic process. A variety of events are taking place on and off campus, including a watch party on election night.
As the nation braces for the outcome of next week’s general election, the Saint Mary’s community is fully engaged and helping to equip its students to be active participants.
Millions of votes have already been cast via absentee ballots or early voting, making Tuesday, November 5, the final day of voting. For students and members of the SMC campus community, completed ballots can be dropped off at the nearby Moraga Library (1500 Saint Marys Road), while in-person voting on Tuesday will take place at St. Monica Catholic Church (1001 Camino Pablo).
Saint Mary’s is hosting or participating in a variety of events related to voting, mental health, civic responsibility, and the democratic process. Below is a listing of known events:
Game Plan for the Polls
Friday, November 1 | 1–2:30 p.m. at the Soda Center
Featuring guest speakers Adonal Foyle (former Golden State Warrior and Democracy Matters CEO) and Mary Lim (Executive Director, Genesis), “Game Plan for the Polls” will help participants create a personal voting plan while getting energized to take part in the democratic process.
Bridge the Bay
Saturday, November 2 | 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m. at Stanford University
A collaboration between BridgeUSA chapters of Saint Mary’s, Stanford University, San Jose State University, and University of California, Berkeley, this day-long event will explore various aspects of the upcoming general election and will examine the nation’s political divisions.
Election Day Watch Party
Tuesday, November 5 | 4–9 p.m. at the Soda Center
Hosted by SMC’s Center for Women and Gender Equity and in collaboration with the Office of Community Life, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), and the Intercultural Center, this event will feature refreshments, entertainment, arts and crafts, mocktails, pet therapy, and individual check-ins with CAPS.
Yellow Tulip Project Planting Party
Wednesday, November 6 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m. in the Filippi Academic Hall Courtyard
Recognizing the stresses related to the upcoming election, the student-driven Yellow Tulip Project aims to reduce the stigma associated with mental health challenges. The campus community is invited to help plant 500 tulip bulbs in the Hope Garden, and the event will also feature rock painting, snacks, and more.
Post-Election Decompression
Wednesday, November 6 | 1:30–3 p.m. at the Quad/Intercultural Center
Anticipating a stressful “morning after” following Tuesday’s General Election? Drop by a decompression event to unwind. Passive and active activities will be offered. The event is a collaboration between the Center for Women and Gender Equity, the Office of Community Life, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), and the Intercultural Center.
Earlier this month, SMC’s Intercultural Center co-hosted, along with the League of Women Voters, an event titled “Learn Local Politics and Propositions.” The event examined the pros and cons of each of the California propositions on this election’s ballot.
Next week’s presidential election, congressional races, and a multitude of ballot measures may have lasting impact in the years ahead, both locally and nationally. Congratulations to those Gaels, faculty members, staff, and others who are doing their part to participate actively in the democratic process!
