The “Get Out the Youth Vote Campaign” is SAAPRI’s new program tailored for and targeting South Asian youth. In a growing effort to encourage more South Asian youth to practice civic engagement, we are a nonpartisan program dedicated to supporting the South Asian American community in the Midwest by implementing an approach that revolves around education, advocacy, and engagement. It is our hope to build networks of understanding and education between voters and governing bodies and create a more civically educated South Asian American community.
Our Issues of Focus
Climate
Climate disasters have been a rising issue and one that impacts the youth, especially youth of color. Addressing personal carbon footprints, switching to clean energy sources, and lobbying for policies that address climate change are ways to ensure a livable future for coming generations.
Human Dignity
Ensuring the rights and opportunities for all is a core value of democracy and the society we are a part of. This includes immigrants, the LGBTQ+ community, women, and other marginalized communities. We demand the government to acknowledge the groups that make this the largest and historically diverse country.
Economic Justice
With the obstacles of student debt, low wages, and widespread difficulties in paying for essentials and affording a home, our current generation anticipates problems that can cripple our economy.
Racial Justice
In the past decade, we have seen an alarming rise in hate crimes and discrimination against not only Asians but fellow marginalized communities. As part of a diverse generation, we have witnessed action taken against systemic racism and oppression to an extraordinary scale. Whether online or in the streets, it is important to maintain a fair, accessible, and equitable political, economic, and judicial system using the civic engagement tools that reshape policy.
Health Equity
From reproductive care being contested to challenges in receiving fair and comprehensive healthcare, aiming to close the gaps in health equity and health literacy is a core value of SAAPRI. Promoting health equity ensures that all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, or geographic location, have fair and just access to the resources and opportunities needed to maintain good physical and mental health.