Only about 30% of Evanston’s registered voters are expected to vote in this spring’s consolidated election. The RoundTable went to the Robert Crown Community Center on Thursday to ask if people planned to vote. Ten of the 13 people we talked to said they would. Two said they cannot vote because they are not U.S. citizens. One person, who identified himself only as Paul, said: “I’m not up to speed on all the candidates. I wish I was more involved. I’ve been so busy at work.”
Here is why the 10 voters plan to cast their ballots by Tuesday.
Kathy Parsons: “There have been attacks on school boards across this country. We are usually protected a little by where we live. I want to be sure Evanston stays safe for everyone who lives here, specifically trans and LGBT kids.” Credit: Richard Cahan 
Ashema Hubbard: “I care about the school board candidates. The top things for me are issues of equity, of closing the achievement gap and the impact of the Fifth Ward school. … My daughter goes to Bessie Rhodes.” Credit: Richard Cahan 
Ruby Barza (with daughter Lilly Islam): “I mailed my ballot this week. People should vote because this is the future of our kids. It matters. This is where we live.” Credit: Richard Cahan 
Leah Lemelin (with son Everett): “I vote since I’m a woman. We never had that right over 100 years ago. And because it’s a way to exercise your perspective and represent your beliefs that benefit the community.” Credit: Richard Cahan 
Nicholas Martin: “I think it’s important to be heard. Especially in municipal elections. That’s where your voice matters the most. I’m looking for progressive candidates with new ideas. People who embrace the reality of climate change.” Credit: Richard Cahan 
Jerie Dahlman: “Because I care about who’s on our school board. … I learn about candidates by reading the Evanston RoundTable and Daily Northwestern. I haven’t gone to any forums, but I know forums exist.” Credit: Richard Cahan 
Ashley Jackson: “As a parent with an incoming student to District 65, I think it’s important to vote for people who represent our interests and are willing to listen to parents and make changes accordingly.” Credit: Richard Cahan 
Soledad Delgado (and daughter Stephanie): “I will vote because of schools. All these bad situations happen in the schools. I think the school board can help.” Credit: Richard Cahan 
Leslye Lapping: “School boards direct the decision making of the schools. I think each community in Evanston needs to be represented on school boards.” Credit: Richard Cahan 
Luis Murillo: “We always complain, but people don’t vote. … I look for people who are fair and who want to improve the city not just for themselves or a certain group of people.” Credit: Richard Cahan