SHAKER HEIGHTS, Ohio — Shaker Heights Middle School was one of the polling locations for Ohio citizens to come and vote in the primary elections. Many voters came out to exercise their constitutional rights.
What You Need To Know
- Ohio primary elections were Aug. 2
- Some voters heavily considered the future of public safety issues while voting
- Voters hoped to inspire others to get out and do their civic duty
One issue that seemed to be on a lot of voters’ minds was public safety. Recent events, such as the deadly shooting of Jayland Walker, raised concerns for people with gun laws in Ohio.
Colin Jackson, one of the younger voters that came to the polls today, was passionate about change and communities coming together on this issue.
“Of course, all the things that have been happening in the news lately and just so much tension in the country, that’s a big part of it. But, I think a big part of what we have to do going forward is healing. And if we’re all participating in the democratic process and making our voices heard, that’s one way for us all to come together,” he said.
Another voter, who’s a mother, was also concerned about gun issues in her community. Rita Rizopatron wants to see change, so that her family and her community feel safer.
“A lot of other, I think, safety precautions that could be taken into place that might restrict the wrong people getting guns and having them,” she said.
Public safety concerns were not the only reasons that Rizopatron came out to vote. She also wanted to inspire her daughter to one day use her voice the same way that she was.
“I have a teenage daughter now who’s very aware and very involved and can’t wait to vote, so I’m proud to be an example for her,” she said.
Jackson also had more reasons to vote. He expressed that he’s proud to be a part of this process. Being an African American, it was not always easy for generations before him to vote, but now he can easily walk into a polling station and vote.
“I think about the great responsibility and the people who made it possible for me to have that,” he said.
Throughout the day, voters had different reasons for coming to do their civic duty and vote, but they all made their voice heard and did their part in bettering the community.
