The James Madison University Washington Semester program provides political science students like myself with the opportunity to live and work in the nation’s capital for a semester. While searching for internships, I came across FairVote’s website and it excited me. Their ideas are forward-thinking yet with the times – Americans are ready for a change. I wanted to have a part in advocating important reforms during such a crucial time in American history, where citizens are more and more unimpressed with the current unrepresentative electoral system.
I am especially enthusiastic about Representation2020, a project of FairVote that advocates for women’s parity in government. Women are extremely underrepresented in both our state and federal legislatures. This is a problem because women provide perspectives on policy that men are unable to and these perspectives need to be heard. I’m interested in parity for women because I believe that since women make up more than half the country it is crucial they are given the opportunity to govern as such. I am excited to work towards parity these next couple months in order to help the voice of women be heard in our government.
I have been interested in democracy for most of my life because I grew up in a very politically active family. I am excited to expand my knowledge of democracy while working at FairVote. I know that I will gain a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience, including professional, research, and communication skills. The opportunity to research and advocate for electoral reform is appealing because FairVote’s work makes a difference. Making sure that every vote counts and the American people are truly represented is crucial and exciting work. I’m eager to work with passionate people and make a contribution to the betterment of our democracy.
