Oakland allows 16-year-olds to vote in school board elections

In 2020, Oakland passed Measure QQ, allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in local school board elections. This significant change empowers young residents to influence decisions that directly affect their education and school environment. The initiative aims to engage students in the democratic process, recognizing that they are the most impacted by the quality of their schools. Organizations like Families in Action have been proactive in mobilizing this youth vote by hosting candidate forums, enabling students to interact with candidates and voice their concerns. Candidates like Benjamin Salop, a 20-year-old Oakland Tech alumnus, have firsthand experience with the importance of student voices in governance. Salop, who contributed to the passage of Measure QQ, emphasizes the need for accountability among school board members. His perspective highlights the necessity of including students in discussions about their education, as they can provide valuable insights into issues such as college preparedness and safety. Patrice Berry, another candidate, supports the enfranchisement of high school students, viewing it as a powerful message of respect for their leadership potential. The involvement of young voters is seen as a critical step toward fostering a more inclusive and representative educational system. For students like Diamond Griggs, the opportunity to vote signifies a chance to take action and influence the future of their schools. This newfound power to hold candidates accountable is expected to lead to meaningful changes in the educational landscape of Oakland, as students express their priorities and concerns through their votes.