Cal State Bakersfield hosted a panel on Oct. 23, of the importances of civic engagement and community voices shaping local politics.
Zaina Farraj, Chair of the board for Associated Students Inc., moderated the panel and opened the discussion by posing questions to the panelists about civic involvement, representation and the power of the individual vote.
Panelists included Councilman Eric Arias, Vice Mayor Manpreet Kaur and Dr. Ivy Cargile, associate professor of political science.
The discussion brought together local leaders and students to explore how participation at the city and county levels can drive meaningful change.
Kaur encouraged students to focus on one issue that truly motivates them, something that could bring change to their community or family. Whether it’s improving local infrastructure, expanding access to healthy food or advocating for bodily autonomy, she said every cause matters. If each person commits to one area of change, she added, communities will be better equipped to tackle the broader challenges of today.
“I think the best part is that they are here, and they explain to us how to be part of the local government and county,” said Anahi Alvallar, a junior political science student.
Panelists acknowledged the challenges commuter students face when trying to stay engaged with campus and the community. They noted that many students travel from surrounding areas like Delano, Arvin and Lamont making it difficult to attend events. They encouraged students to follow the City of Bakersfield’s Instagram page @Bakersfieldcity for updates on local events and initiatives, as well as the personal accounts of city officials who share information directly.
“When you vote for someone, it is important that you know that they are the ones who make the important decisions, the decisions they make are important for you,” Kaur said.
It’s important to understand that your voice is important and even if you don’t make decisions directly in a meeting, choose the people who are there, they are the ones who make those decisions.
“There’s a reason young people don’t vote, because they think their voice is not important, but everyone’s voice is important, we have the opportunity to be here and study in these rooms and understand how politics work,” Cargile said.
Cargile urged students to recognize the power of participation, reminding them that choosing not to vote still has consequences.
“If you don’t make the decision,” she said, “Someone else will make it for you. Don’t let that happen in your life.”
Young people play a significant role in shaping the future through their civic participation and contributions to public dialogue.
“Having the opportunity to meet with council members face-to-face is a great opportunity, especially for junior students, so they can give us a sense of direction about our city and how we can engage with the community,” said Camila Franco, a junior political science student.
These events are a way for students to feel motivated about politics to help them understand what’s happening in their city. It also allows young people to understand that their opinion is important, and their vote can make a difference.
