PennWest is set to host two important events on Tuesday, Sept. 17, in honor of Constitution Day and National Voter Registration Day. These events are intended to educate and encourage the campus community to engage more deeply in the democratic process.
A free screening of the award-winning documentary, “One Person, One Vote?” will take place at 6 p.m. The documentary explores the origins and contentious history of the Electoral College, providing context to contemporary political events. There will be screenings on all three PennWest campuses, with the California campus hosting the screening in the Vulcan Theater.
This documentary, directed by Maximina Juson, offers a nonpartisan examination of the Electoral College, an institution often misunderstood by the public. Laura Tuennerman, a professor of history and Director of the American Democracy Project here at PennWest California, emphasized the significance of this screening.
“The Electoral College, rather than the popular vote, determines our next leader,” she explained. “Yet, many Americans are not well-versed in its workings or origins. This documentary not only explains the system but also explores its roots in slavery and racism, offering a fresh perspective on this American institution.”
Earlier in the day, at 3:30 p.m., PennWest will host a live panel discussion titled “Come Learn About the Republican and Democratic National Party Conventions – a Student Experience.” This event will feature California, Clarion, and Edinboro students who had the unique opportunity to attend the Republican and Democratic National Conventions. Kevan Yenerall will moderate the discussion. It will take place on all three campuses, and the California campus will host in Duda Hall in room 117. For those who cannot attend in person, the event will also be accessible via Zoom.
Tuennerman stressed the importance of these events.
“Once someone votes in an election, they are likely to continue voting throughout their lifetime,” she said. “Therefore, our goal is to make the registration process as smooth as possible, empowering students to engage and shape the country’s future.”
These events support the mission of the American Democracy Project (ADP) at PennWest University. Established in 2003 under the late Melanie J. Blumberg, the ADP strives to prepare the next generation of informed, engaged citizens.
Tuennerman also noted the legal aspect of voter registration efforts.
“Public universities, and indeed all institutions receiving federal funding, are required to make voter registration materials available to students,” added Tunnerman. “It’s not just something we should do; it’s something we must do.”
PennWest University invites all students, faculty, staff, and community members to participate in these enriching events. Both the documentary screening and the panel discussion offer unique opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of American democratic institutions, the electoral process, and the importance of civic engagement.
In addition to the screening, voter registration assistance will be available at both events. This initiative is a collaborative effort by the PennWest American Democracy Project and the PennWest University Libraries, to simplify the voter registration process for students and the campus community.
“One Person, One Vote?” is a compelling piece that explores the complexities of the Electoral College and its historical context. The panel discussion will provide firsthand insights from students who have witnessed the political process up close. It’s time to learn, discuss, and take action together.
