CWU hosting various student engagement events around Election Day

Throughout the fall quarter, CWU has been hosting a series of events aimed at helping students understand and engage with their constitutional right to vote, and encouraging them to grapple with the difficult questions raised by the proceedings in a productive and respectful manner.

Those events will continue today across the Ellensburg campus.

From 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., local election officials will host a Student Engagement Hub in the SURC Ballroom. This space will provide official voter registration and voting services, along with information about local, state, and national candidates and issues. Even if you haven’t yet registered to vote, this is an opportunity to get involved and make your voice heard.

Later today, an election watch party will be held from 6-10 p.m. in the SURC Pit, giving students an opportunity to watch and discuss the event in real time. News coverage will be displayed on screens and live commentary will be provided by student reporters from 88.1 The ‘Burg. Snacks and activities will also be provided. CWU asks that attendees abide by the following community guidelines for the event:

• Approach with curiosity, not judgement
• Expect and accept discomfort
• Use "I" statements to share your opinions
• Share the airtime and give others a chance to speak
• Center the conversation in our humanity
• It's OK to take a break

Questions To Reflect On Before Engaging

• Am I in the right head space to engage in new information?
• Could this space trigger additional distress or discomfort for me?
• Do I have a plan for self-care after this event?
• Do I know who I can talk to for support after this event?

Election de-stress zones will be available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in SURC 236, 250, and 256. These areas will provide peace and quiet, along with low-key activities, for those who need a break from the discourse and stress surrounding the election.