Message from the Office of the President: Remember tomorrow is Election Day

From the Office of the President

Dear Twin Cities students, faculty, and staff,

Tomorrow is Election Day, although it may be more appropriate to say that tomorrow marks the end of the voting season. Here in Minnesota, we have a proud tradition of voting, which Governor Walz, Governor Dayton, Governor Pawlenty, and Governor Ventura recently together affirmed. They stressed that the 2020 election is critically important and I know we all agree.

Over the past few years, the number of U of M students, faculty, and staff who vote by mail or go to an early voting location has more than doubled. Since the time for mailing ballots has passed, you should drop off your ballot at the drop off location at the east entrance to Northrop or at our Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center in North Minneapolis. These sites are for Minneapolis residents only who have received their absentee ballot but not yet returned it. Both sites are open from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Election Day. You may also drop off a ballot for up to three others at these locations. Please review the requirements carefully if you choose this option.

Minnesota also provides same-day voting registration for those not registered already. Same-day voting registration applies to U of M students eligible to vote and living in Minnesota. If you need to register tomorrow, remember to bring a Minnesota ID to your polling location that shows the correct address for the precinct where you are voting. You can also bring an outdated driver’s license or your U Card along with a utility bill, lease, or banking statement showing your current address to prove residency. If you have already registered, you do not need to bring anything with you to vote.

No matter what you believe or who you support, it’s important for your voice to be heard and to make your vote count. If you have not yet cast your ballot, I urge you to do so tomorrow.

Events Calendar

Many people have asked me if there are more events, on all campuses, that can help them understand the election and what it means for Minnesota and our nation or that will create space for informed discussion. I encourage you to use the University’s Events Calendar to find events across the state that may interest you. Here in the Twin Cities, Professor Kathryn Pearson will review the national and local landscape on the evening of November 5.

The Events Calendar is a great way to engage in the election and other topics, both online and in person, including with family and friends. Now more than ever, the University can come to your front door and indeed, to your living room online.

Lastly, as we have transitioned from October to November, and as we stand on the eve of our national election, I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible work of our University family to respond to the challenges we have faced this fall, and for everything that we have accomplished together. Your gifts of imagination and discovery, along with the resilient confidence, hope, and optimism that you have demonstrated daily, have collectively uplifted our entire community. This shared spirit reminds me of a quote by George Bernard Shaw, who passed on this day in 1950: “Some men [women] see things as they are and ask why. Others dream things that never were and ask why not?” While we recognize that our challenges may grow before they get better, I want you all to know that I am proud to walk with each of you in this journey.

Be healthy, safe, and well – and vote!

With warmest regards and gratitude,

Joan Gabel