I believe I speak for quite a few when I say that the None of the Above campaign is a misappropriation of the wonderful system of democratic elections that we take for granted. Its proponents argue that the lack of good candidates should encourage a voting for none, delaying, derailing and potentially backfiring on the good intentions of encouraging the choice for right leadership.

There is a difference between None of the Above as a declaration that specific gender/race/ethnic/sexual orientation labels do not adequately express our own identities, and None of the Above as a suggestion that none of the candidates are worthy of their post. I am a NOTA of the former, but not of the latter.

Swarthmore is a place known for people doing the things they find to be right, for standing up for causes even with the challenges that face them. It is disappointing to know that among us are individuals who have such cowardice as to stand anonymous and to suggest that all of the candidates do not understand the responsibilities of their positions, do not understand the community they intend to serve, and therefore, are not qualified to serve the community. Those who adhere by NOTA envisage change that they feel strongly enough about but do not wish to be involved with. They criticize those who take the extra step to put forth their platforms and refuse to subject themselves to the same. NOTA may be a joke not to be taken seriously, but what it stands for is apathy and criticism without any real, concrete alternative.

If an alternative should be desired, my friends, let it be ourselves who promote that change.

Rio Akasaka ’09