Delta College is focusing on non-voter student engagement as part of its participation in the 2024 California University and College Ballot Bowl, with Associated Students for Delta College (ASDC) and Dreamers Success Center partnering to focus on civic engagement beyond casting a ballot.
The Ballot Bowl is a state-level competition organized by the California Secretary of State’s office that encourages colleges and universities to boost voter registration and civic engagement among students.
While the initiative stimulates friendly competition between campuses to increase voter participation, for many immigrant students at Delta the event raises concerns because they’re unable to make political decisions, despite being directly impacted by those decisions.
The partnership of the Student Life office and Dreamers Success Center is designed to empower all students, regardless of immigration status and foster a sense of involvement and participation in shaping their community.
“A good example of engaging even if you’re not voting is emailing your representatives. They still represent you since you live in that area,” said Layla Alaswad, ASDC Vice President of Student Affairs during Club Rush.
The heart of these efforts aim to involve the non-voter student population in civic activities. While the Dreamers Success Center is frequently busy with students seeking support, many are also looking for ways to make changes in the community despite an inability to cast a ballot.
“We are collaborating with Student Life to spread the information that voting is happening. Yes, you might not be able to vote but you have family and people that can vote, so let’s educate you guys so you can educate active voters and make an impact,” said the Dreamers Success Center’s resource specialist, Tina Leal.
Leal highlighted the upcoming Undocumented Student Action Week that will be taking place from Oct. 14 through Oct. 17. This statewide event was created by California Community Colleges to raise awareness about the challenges that undocumented students have to face and to promote discussions around local, state and federal solutions.
This initiative also seeks to build a strong, collaborative system that supports student success, breaking down silos and promoting a unified campus approach. Delta College will join other institutions in championing the needs of its undocumented student population during this important week of advocacy and action.
