Community spirit demonstrated on election day

Posted 11/11/20

This has been a hard-fought and discordant campaign season, disruptive to sone friendships and, yes, to families. I can add a brighter aspect to the election.

Learning that some of our …

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Community spirit demonstrated on election day

Posted

This has been a hard-fought and discordant campaign season, disruptive to sone friendships and, yes, to families. I can add a brighter aspect to the election.

Learning that some of our long-serving election workers were taking the year off because of the Coronavirus, I volunteered to take their place. I’m glad my offer was accepted.

It was a long day – from set-up before the 7 a.m. opening to shutting down after the 8 p.m. close. All four members of our team – the Judge of Elections, the Majority, Minority, and Machine Inspectors – were first-timers. Each of us had attended an in-person training session, read (and re-read) the instructional materials, and watched on-line videos provided by the City Commissioners and the Committee of Seventy.

While a substantial portion of the Ninth Ward had already voted by mail, we had – through midday at least – a steady stream of voters. Whether required or not, most had photo-IDs in-hand; they were friendly and eager to cast their ballots. It’s true, we had a couple of voters who were unhappy; each was treated with courtesy and a determination to resolve their issues and have them cast their vote. The observers for both major political parties contributed to the friendly and supportive atmosphere.

It was a rewarding and inspiring day. My belief in the power of community to bring us together – regardless of political leanings – was renewed. I’ll gladly volunteer for the next election.

James H. Hill
Chestnut Hill