Overview:
Zyanna Riquelmy is deeply concerned about climate change's effects on ecosystems and rising sea levels, seeking candidates committed to environmental and public health protection. She stresses the need to move beyond personal gain and vote for genuine justice.
Neighborhood Reporting Lab is supported by the Americana and Kresge Foundations.
In this interview, Planet Detroit Neighborhood Reporter Estefania Arellano speaks with 24-year-old Zyanna Riquelmy, a Head Start worker living in Riverview, Michigan. Diana shares her perspective on the upcoming election and discusses the key issues that guide her voting decisions, such as human rights, climate change, and food safety.
Estefania: Are you planning to vote in this upcoming election?
Zyanna: Yes, I will definitely be voting this year. Even though the electoral college system can be confusing, I believe it’s important to continue voting.
Estefania: Do you think your vote will make a difference?
Zyanna: I hope my vote will make a difference. With the electoral college, it can feel like individual votes don’t always count. But I’m committed to voting because I believe it’s important to have my voice heard.
Estefania: What are the top 3 issues that are most important to you when it comes to voting?
Zyanna: The top issues for me are basic human rights, equal rights for women, and having a leader who genuinely cares about people. It’s been tough in recent elections, feeling like I’m just choosing the lesser of two evils. But I always vote for what I believe is right.
Estefania: How do health, climate, and the environment factor into your voting decisions?
Zyanna: Climate change is a huge concern for me. I’ve noticed big changes in our Michigan winters, and the impact on animals, plants, and rising sea levels is really alarming. Health is also critical – I’m worried about all the food recalls and additives in our food supply. I want to vote for candidates who will prioritize protecting our environment and public health.
Estefania: Did you watch either the Republican or Democratic National Conventions?
Zyanna: I caught some snippets of both. The Republican one felt very formal and quiet, while the Democratic one had more of a celebratory, participatory atmosphere that I appreciated. I liked how the Democrats gave a voice to representatives from each state.
Estefania: What would you have hoped to hear them say that they didn’t address?
Zyanna: I would have liked to hear more about the tensions within the Democratic party, especially around issues like Israel and Palestine. I’m concerned that some Democrats are so opposed to Trump that they’re willing to support candidates whose views don’t fully align with their own. I think there needs to be more education about how the government actually functions.
Estefania: What are the most pressing climate, environment, and health concerns in your community?
Zyanna: Food safety is a huge issue for me and my community. There are so many recalls on basic grocery items, while fast food seems to avoid that scrutiny. Healthy food is also much more expensive, making it harder for people to access. I think cleaning up our food supply and ensuring access to nutritious options should be a top priority.
Estefania: Is there anything else you’d like to share about your perspective on the election and the issues that matter most to you?
Zyanna: I just want to emphasize that when it comes to voting, people need to look beyond their self-interest and vote for what’s truly right. A $1,200 stimulus check from Trump isn’t going to make up for the long-term damage of another four years under his presidency. We have to think about the bigger picture and vote with our hearts, not just our wallets.
