The New Hampshire Youth Movement (NHYM) is a statewide organization, with the largest chapter at the University of New Hampshire (UNH). Originally focused on climate issues, the group has expanded to address a range of important topics, including campus organizing, housing campaigns, and elections.
Brecken Harrigan, a member of the group, talked about the importance of voting especially for young people.
“Issues we care about are impacted by upcoming elections, we mobilize young voters to vote in New Hampshire. Young people have a powerful impact, especially in a swing state,” Harrigan said.
There are many issues to be dealt with in the upcoming election, including reproductive rights, housing and bills proposed in several states regarding gender identity. This election is not only about voting for a new U.S. president but also about voting on bills and electing new state leaders inNew Hampshire, including a new governor.
Nick Patrick, another member of the youth movement who focuses on legislation, emphasized the importance of passing key bills.
“Young people need to vote, get caught up,” Patrick said. “Young people should vote on the local and state level. States with older demographics, such as New Hampshire, are trying to take young people’s voices away. It’s so important for younger people to have a voice in the state house. It’s super important to pass bills and legislation that helps us.”
Certain politicians are pushing for stricter voter requirements. Though not in this election, Gov. Chris Sununu recently signed legislation making voter ID mandatory in New Hampshire.
In a statement, Sununu said, “this legislation will instill even more integrity and trust in the voting process.”
“Young people are voting for the first time. Reproductive rights, housing and [legislation around transgender citizens] can be affected by who is governor. We need more people in the state house to help advocate for young people. We need a youthful friendly state house.” Patrick said.
Both Harrigan and Patrick, along with other members of NHYM, are working to encourage young voters on campus. They are doing this by standing outside campus grounds to discuss the importance of voting and taking time before classes to talk to students about how and why to vote.
“Young people are told they don’t have a voice or are not educated. With growing up in a more diverse environment, young people have so much more time in their life and deserve to have a voice,” Harrigan said.
Many students know why they should vote, but some are unsure about where to register and where to go to vote.
“In New Hampshire, you can register up until Nov. 5. Bring some form of ID or student ID. You can also show your housing portal as proof of living on campus,” Harrigan said. “You are able to register when you go to the polls to vote in New Hampshire.”
“Don’t just vote and forget about it, look at the legislation, anyone can do online testimony, anyone can go to the state house and talk about issues they are passionate about, support or oppose bills,” Patrick said. “Don’t have others restrict people’s rights in the Live Free or Die state.”
Voting day is on Nov. 5, 2024. Rides will be available outside The Mub Circle between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. to take students to the polls.
