CLAY, N.Y. (NCC News) – At Clay Town Hall on Election Day, voters are making decisions about who will represent them at every level of government. But the ballot is only one part of the story. For the people casting it, democracy can carry a meaning shaped by their experiences, their families and the future they want to see.
“Democracy means having a voice in who my leaders are,” said Martha Lawson, a poll worker at Clay Town Hall.
For Lawson, that voice is central to the democratic process. Steve Roberts sees democracy as a freedom that extends beyond the voting booth.
“The freedom of doing what you want to do when you want to do it as long as you’re not doing unto others,” Roberts said.
Clay Town Hall was quiet, but a steady stream of voters moved through the building throughout the day. Many left with “I Voted” stickers displayed on their shirts, a small but visible sign of participation in democracy.
“What we’ve had in the past is what I would like to see going forward,” Cynthia Richter said. “My fears are that things are changing for my children and my grandchildren. I hope it stays the way it’s always been, an important part of our society.”