The Justice

As many Brandeisians are surely aware, this week marks the one-year lead-up to the 2008 presidential elections. While that race takes up much of our time, money and attention at a national level, it's easy to forget that today is itself an election day. Here in Waltham, contests for mayor, city council and other government positions are open this year, and although they might not realize it, many Brandeis students are eligible to participate.



Viewed in a certain light, student apathy is understandable; most of us don't pay taxes here and many local issues clearly don't affect us in a direct sense. But if we're to take ourselves seriously as engaged citizens (and perhaps justify that American Studies major), we should take an interest in the real and truly grassroots politics taking place at our doorstep. Care deeply about education policy in this country? Have a look at a few school board candidates and then have your say. Wish you could buy your loofah at big box chain closer to campus? Support a pro-development city councilor and see what happens.



We understand that many students who aren't from Massachusetts choose to fill out absentee ballots from their home states (we all know which party Massachusetts will vote for in 2008, after all), but this is no excuse not to think locally. We urge all students to strive toward a better understanding of this area and the local elections back home, for part of being a good citizen is being an informed citizen.



For students ineligible this time around, keep an eye on local issues- you just might find yourself informed and ready when you take a look at the ballot a year from now to vote in that other election, the one we've already heard so much about.

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