October 2024

Those of us who were born in the United States, tend to take democracy for granted. People who emigrated to our shores from many other countries around the world, who lived under other types of governments, often take the preservation of our democracy even more seriously than we do because they have experienced what happens if we don’t elect the right people. This year our election is the most crucial it ever has been. At risk is democracy at its core, the planet as we know it, and the health and protection of our bodies. 

I often hear people referring to  our elected officials as “they”, as “they should pass a law to…” or “they should be providing more funds for…” The “they” are those WE have elected. It is therefore our obligation to elect the very best and honest people, who are dedicated to our priorities, to represent us. These are the individuals who are responsible to pass legislation which are the laws by which we are governed. 

When I teach a government class, and the students ask how they should choose for whom to vote, I suggest that each student make a personal list of the priorities of issues most important to them. Then I ask them to research the candidates who are running and see which of them line up with their priorities. Then they must make sure to vote for those candidates.

Most of us don’t have the time to vet every candidate, so another very good way to make a decision for whom to vote, is to go to the organizations or groups you trust and see who they are endorsing and why. 

As a member of Sierra Club, you can rely on our recommendations because we go through a very thorough process of vetting candidates, both nationally as well as in each state. Each candidate who would like our endorsement, must fill out questionnaires and then go through at least two committees for approval. A candidate who is endorsed by Sierra Club will be trusted to have as a major priority protection of our environment and our sensitive universe and protection for the good and welfare of the people who live on this earth.

Please see our full list of endorsements, and information about propositions on the ballot on the Politics & Elections page on the CNNY site. The candidates have been endorsed by both local, state and national Sierra Club and we urge you to vote for them. 

You should have received this flyer in the mail as well. If you did not, please contact me asap so we will be sure we have the correct mailing address for you. Thank you!