With voting just around the corner, some Venice students are getting involved in the upcoming election by working at voting centers around Los Angeles. 

Social studies teacher Ahsan Minhas has been helping students pursue opportunities at voting centers through Los Angeles County for the last four years. 

On the day of the election, students will assist from morning to night by setting up the voting center, helping people vote, and possibly even counting the ballots. 

“It’s a great opportunity for students to assist in the democratic process.” Minhas said. “I feel like teaching about government and democracy is one way of improving our democracy by making students aware of how important it is to vote, and how important it is to be informed about issues.” 

Minhas believes it’s important for young adults to get involved in politics. 

“Voting affects every aspect of our lives, the leaders we choose, the laws, the governors here in California,” he said. “By voting we are having a say in our lives and hopefully improving our lives and the lives of the community.” 

“An important lesson I am always reminded of in my classes is that democracy and voting rights have been fought for. Our history of our country is a history of people fighting, like Dr. King fighting for African Americans’ voting rights, so it’s something that people have given their lives for.” 

Senior Eva Molina decided to assist at a voting center because it seemed like an experience she’d like to learn more about politics from. 

“I thought it would be a cool experience to have and to see what goes on during the voting process,” she said. “I’m a part of the next generation of our country so I felt the need to learn more about politics.”

Senior Lilia Davey recently turned 18, and is also going to work at a polling site. She’s excited to practice her right to vote in her first election. 

“Now that I’m old enough I’m able to vote, why not do it?”