Citizenship Interview: Political Participation

Interviewee: Jeanene Johnson, about 30 years old, African American woman, lives in West Philadelphia. 
She didn't want to be recorded because she was very self conscious, so I wrote down the whole interview.

Me: Hello, my name is Dakota Foster and I wanted to know if I could interview for a school project about voting. 

Johnson: Sure, I would love it. 

Me: Okay, thank you. What is your name?

Johnson: Jeanene Johnson

Me: Okay, and how old are you, about?

Johnson: I am around 30 years old, haha. 

Me: Alright, thank you. Let’s start with the questions. 

Johnson: Okay, let’s go. 

Me: What motivated you to come out and vote?

Johnson: I actually got to talk to older family members whom had to fight for their right to be able to vote because they were Black &/or women. I would be doing them and myself a disservice if I did not vote. Besides, my vote does actually count.

Me: What would you like to see changed in our political system?

Johnson: More bipartisan cooperation. 

Me: Do you vote in every election? (How regularly do you vote?)

Johnson: Every. Single. Election.

Me: Do you know why we vote on Tuesday?

Johnson: I knew but have forgotten! 

Me: Where have you encountered the highest amount of ad campaigning? 

Johnson: TV and radio. Oh, also Facebook postings.

Me: What was the most memorable campaign ad that you have encountered?

Johnson: Of course I am now drawing a blank but it was an ad for Obama.

Me: Are you always sure of who you are going to vote for when you walk into the booth or are you still deliberating?

Johnson: Always sure.

Me: What changes do you hope to see in Philadelphia as a result of this election?

Johnson: More support for teachers, financial aid for students

Me: What impact do you feel that your vote will have on the election?

Johnson: I think that the candidate that I selected is the best person for the task ahead. I feel that he (Barak Obama) will continue to make sure that people can love who they love, women’s rights and a woman’s body are protected.

Me: Did you learn about voting in school? If yes, did that impact your willingness to vote today?

Johnson: Yes. But mostly it was emphasized by my mother and grandmother.

Me: Okay, that’s the last question. Thank you for taking the time out to answer them. And I hope you have a wonderful day. 

Johnson: Thank you so much, you too.