University News

Message from Interim President Martin Abraham: November 3, 2020 - Election Day

October 26, 2020

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Dear WIU Community,

Next week is an important day for our nation as we go to the polls for the presidential election, as well as many other decisions important to the future of our region, state and nation. As such, I would like to first remind our students, faculty, and staff that Tuesday, November 3 is a state holiday; therefore, the University will be closed on Election Day and classes will not be held.

I would also once again like to share that we are hosting polling places on our Macomb and Moline campuses. Individuals on the Macomb campus may vote in person from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. today through Thursday, Oct. 29 in the University Union first floor lobby. Individuals on the Moline campus may vote in person from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. through Friday, Oct. 30 and from 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3 in the WIU-QC Complex Atrium. Facial coverings are required, and social distancing measures will be in place.

Early voting continues at the McDonough County Courthouse in Macomb through Monday, Nov. 2, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday, and from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. Early voting is also available at the Rock Island County Courthouse from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. through Monday, Nov. 2, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31 and from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1.

As I've mentioned in previous letters regarding this year's election, be respectful and civil, and refrain from hateful, racist and violent discourse. We support your right to voice your opinion, and we encourage respectful discussions. We may disagree, but we must do so in a manner that protects the integrity of our differences.

Also, as Election Day is but one week from today, I would again like to remind all of our employees, including student employees, of the following State Ethics Act regulation: "State employees shall not intentionally perform any prohibited political activity during any compensated time (other than vacation, personal, or compensatory time off)." If you choose to engage in any political-related activity in your free time, you should not wear your WIU nametag or any attire that is affiliated with your position at the University.

Whether you choose to vote early or wait until Nov. 3, take the time to express your opinions at the ballot box. I am optimistic that we will be able to work together, no matter the outcome of the election, to ensure a positive, successful, and peaceful future for Western Illinois University.

Thank you for taking the time to read these letters. I know you are faced with a great deal of communication from many different directions on a daily basis, so I greatly appreciate your time. Take care, and let your voices be heard.

Martin Abraham
Interim President

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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