Participation in the Election Process

Voting
The most important action student pharmacists can take to change the status quo is to vote. The profession needs to fervently support elected representatives and initiatives that improve the practice of pharmacy. Without vocal and noticeable support, the future of the profession will be dictated to pharmacists by others, not determined by pharmacists themselves.

Increase chapter political activity by holding a voter registration day and provide both voter registration forms and absentee ballot request forms. Schedule the day early in the academic year so members are eligible to vote in November elections and provide a voting information sheet. List the candidates that are running and a brief statement as to whether or not they are supportive of pharmacy issues. This short list can be helpful and serve as a guide if students are voting for the first time in area where they are unfamiliar with the candidates.

Campaigning
As students become more aware of issues affecting their career, political activity can be taken a step further by participating in campaigns for candidates and initiatives.

Students who vote should be aware of candidates that are particularly supportive of issues that are important to pharmacists. Getting involved in a campaign can take as much or as little time as a person is available to give. It can be as simple as handing out campaign stickers in a parade or more involved by calling or visiting constituents.

Personal involvement shows the candidate the commitment pharmacists have for their issues. This will also help develop a working relationship with the candidate that can be very beneficial if the candidate is elected.

It is also important for pharmacists to be vocal when initiatives are on the ballot that directly affect them. If proposed legislation affects pharmacy in a favorable or unfavorable way, it is important for pharmacists to let the general voting public know about it. Information on candidates and officials supportive of pharmacy initiatives can be obtained from state pharmacy associations.