VOTE!

‘I vote because I love democracy and I want it to last’.

Lann, 65 yr. old community member, a survivor of the Khmer Rouge genocide and first time voter

CERI’s holistic approach to mental health and wellness embraces the whole person; taking into account all aspects of their life -- family and community, environment, access to food and social services, ability to work, just to name a few. As with years past, CERI supports community members to vote because it is an act of wellness, directly impacting social conditions which shape health and wellbeing while empowering and contributing to change.

In the past couple of weeks, CERI staff supported over 60 community member’s registration to vote, while educating families on Propositions, measures and candidates through small group discussions, a town hall event, and one-on-one meetings. Our community members are committed to active citizenship and wish to contribute to change.

We asked them “Why do you vote?


“I vote because I want more people to work and make the country go in the right direction” -Kaoeun, 70, a community member and survivor of Khmer Rouge genocide


“we vote because unless we have a government that cares about its people, nothing will change.” -Sim and Sin, 65 and 62, community members and survivors of Khmer Rouge genocide.


“I decided to vote because I would like to see some changes within our candidates who can make our community better.” -Allen, 18, a youth program participants and child of a Khmer Rouge genocide survivor.


"I vote because I want freedom for everybody and I want refugees and immigrants to have the freedom to live in this country." -Chhorvy, 60, a community member and survivor of Khmer Rouge genocide “I vote because I deeply value freedom and democracy. I am a citizen and have the right to vote and make decisions.” -Kimleang, 62, a community member and survivor of Khmer Rouge genocide


"We vote because we want to have a government that helps the poor and listens to doctors and does not deport refugees." -Lorn and Vinna, 65 and 67, community members and survivors of Khmer Rouge genocide, first time voter


"I vote because I need peace and freedom. “ -Chhy, 68, a community member and survivor of Khmer Rouge genocide. “I used to vote by myself and it was hard for me to figure out all the boxes. I am happy we do it at CERI now." -Sophann, 66, a community member and survivor of Khmer Rouge genocide.


"I vote because it is my right.” -Melinda, 48, a community member and a survivor of the Khmer Rouge genocide.


“Make my voice heard. Make a difference. That’s why I’m voting.” -Sovann, 78, a community member and survivor of Khmer Rouge genocide “It’s my freedom. I exercise my freedom.” -Kim, 58, a community member and survivor of Khmer Rouge genocide


CERI’s voter registration and education virtual town hall (10/20/2020)

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