To the Editor:

Recently I spoke with N.C. Rep. Mike Clampitt, R-Bryson City, and Sen. Jim Davis, R-Franklin, about the Photo ID state constitutional amendment that will be on the state ballot this fall. I expressed my concerns; that requiring a photo ID can and will disenfranchise voters across our state, especially in rural areas such as where their constituents are residing. That voter fraud in North Carolina is virtually nonexistent, and requiring an ID is a solution in search of a problem. They nodded their heads as I spoke, one more polite than the other, but ended with the same basic sentiment; they don’t care. They were completely unfazed and apathetic towards the idea that this amendment can and will hurt more people than it will help. That this will hurt our people.

It was during these conversations that I realized the scope of the problem. Our representatives did not vote for this amendment out of ignorance or a lack of understanding. They voted for it knowing exactly what it can and will do to hurt voting in North Carolina. They voted for it in an attempt to stop people like ourselves, our neighbors, and our loved ones from participating in the political process. 

That is why now, more than ever, it is time for North Carolina to unite at the polls, and vote against this Amendment. We know our legislatures don’t care about us, so now it is time to prove that we care about ourselves and our people, and that we will do what is right. 

Sara Mears

WCU student

Cullowhee