Unlike a debate format, the forum format provided an opportunity for deeper dialogue. It allowed candidates to sit shoulder-to-shoulder with their opponents and respectfully hear each other’s viewpoints during the moderated session.
A key goal of the Nonpartisan Candidate Forum was the opportunity for voter education and engagement. Attendees listened to arguments from both sides of the aisle and probed candidates with their questions. Recurring issues during the discussions included education, transportation, and healthcare.
Farida Nurani, told The Independent “in today’s trying times, it is all the more important for all of us to be able to come together at such places that provide opportunities for dialogue, for inclusive conversations, and for understanding diverse perspectives.”
President of the Ismaili Council for the Southeastern United States Murad Abdullah expressed his appreciation to the candidates for their service, and for attending the forum at such a busy time in the campaign, specifically on the last Sunday of early voting.
President Abdullah continued, “The Ismaili Jamatkhana fosters an appreciation of pluralism and the events hosted at the Ismaili Jamatkhana aspire to stimulate the intellect, encourage dialogue, build friendships and celebrate diversity in the greater Atlanta area.” A number of candidates expressed their appreciation of the peaceful and positive tone of this forum. After the session, candidates had the opportunity to tour the Jamatkhana.
Hena Madhani is a college student who has been working on the campaign trail. She appreciated that the event “allowed voters to personally meet the candidates. It also gave the candidates exposure to the Gwinnett county residents and opened up a dialogue.”
Representatives from the Gwinnett County Voter Registration and Elections Office were present with Direct Recording Electronic (DRE) voting machines to help familiarize voters with equipment and ballots that they would encounter on Election Day.
First time voter, Naseem Nanji, said that the forum helped her “understand the voting process and its importance.” She also learned the issues that are important to candidates from her district, which helped her make informed decisions. She left the event confident, with practical information on “where to vote, and how to vote.”
Karim Ajani has been passionately engaged in the political space for a number of years and was thrilled to see the room full of individuals mingling with their local candidates. Involvement in politics enables Karim to “establish relationships with legislators,” and he hopes that others in the community will continue to be civically engaged “by attending Homeowners Association, Parent-Teacher, City and Town Hall meetings.”
Karim said, “It is important to understand the legislation that is being passed by our elected representatives and become a vocal, sound voice for the betterment of society. The safety and future of our families depends on good stewardship of leaders, and we elect them one voice at a time.”
The Nonpartisan Candidate Forum was a launchpad for education on fulfilling one’s civic duty. The forum allowed dispersal of knowledge from both sides, thereby promoting civic engagement in a truly non-partisan way.
