Point #2: while the Chinese population has made enormous contributions to America's economy, it is frequently left out of the political mainstream. Many times, they want to be involved but don't know where to start.
For this reason, I invited Mr. Rush Holt to visit HuaXia East Brunswick (HXEB) Chinese School yesterday (10/30) so the Chinese population in the area can meet him and know who he is as a candidate, Congressman, and as a person.
Mr. Scott Sipprelle was also invited by the HXEB school administration to visit.
It turns out that a lot of Chinese parents, grandparents, and teachers were quite interested in know what these two candidates' views were regarding a number of issues, and what they hope to do as representatives. Of course, many people were concerned about the economy and government spending. There were also some who asked about immigration reform, US/China relations, and the international economy (i.e. exchange rates). Those with kids naturally were worried about the education system, including Math/Science/Foreign Language programs.
Overall, the event was very successful. This is a major first step for many families to learn about and get more involved in their community.
A group's political influence comes primarily from its voter turnout of that group. It does not matter how many government officials that group has. It does not matter how big the group's population is. What matters is how many people choose to vote and become involved -- how else will representatives know of and respond to the concerns of that group?
The act of voting itself seems simple. However, while many people know of major elections like that of the President, they do not know of campaigns "smaller" that that. It is important that we remain informed about these elections, particularly those of the state and local levels, as these are the people who will be representing our issues and concerns to the national government.
No matter what your citizenship status is, no matter if you are eligible to vote or not, you are still living in the United States of America. Our government's decisions will definitely impact you. What you can do is to make sure you are involved, particularly with the people who may be directly representing your opinions, your concerns, and your rights to the national government.
Powers and rights come from our participations of political process. If we give up "by people", then we will not have "of the people" and "for the people".
Congressman Rush Holt
Mr. Holt & myself.On another note: HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
(& to those who are going for the Nov. 1 deadline, like me, have fun & good luck!)
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