I really enjoyed the Hands Off Rally. Being with like-minded people always helps mitigate feeling overwhelmed and powerless
With that said, I walked home wishing that there was something I could do that felt more immediately impactful, more concrete.
When Democrats last had “trifecta” control, Republicans didn’t seem particularly overwhelmed. They immediately went to work. Their grassroots effort to run for and win elections from the bottom up built the foundation on which the current chaos sits.
Second, I thought of the Review’s excellent endorsement of Farah Lillian Emeka, OC ’97, for Oberlin Municipal Judge. Farah is an exemplary citizen and demonstrates fairness. She’s an Obie to be proud of. Furthermore, the role of Municipal Judge has influence on the culture and daily lives of us all. Especially now.
How to supplement my “protest” with a more concrete action suddenly seemed clear: vote. I can vote for Farah Emeka today through May 6. You can, too. Does this seem trivial? Cliche? It’s not. Oberlin students constitute a powerful voting block that has yet to leverage its influence. Voting for Farah for Oberlin Municipal Judge is a great time to start using your power.
Importantly, the Oberlin Municipal Judge constituency includes areas with a broad range of political views: Amherst, Wellington, Kipton, New Russia, and others.
In the last Municipal Judge election, only rougly 2.5 percent of the college precinicts showed up to vote. We need to do better. The passion I felt from nearly 1,500 folks rallying in the rain suggests we can. I’m asking — if not pleading — that Oberlin students and “townies” put a vote to your voice and work together to end the madness. March down Elm Street and deliver your voice to the voting booth, and help elect Farah Lillian Emeka as the next Oberlin Municipal Judge. Do it for yourself, this community, this country, and the world that we share and see slipping away. And if you aren’t registered in Ohio, consider whether it’s a more powerful use of your vote for the time you’re here.
–Victor Melfi
