Over 357 students, staff, parents, and press gathered in the Diablo room at Diablo Valley College all with one purpose, to hear from political activist Ralph Nader.

“I want to show how the community colleges of California, all 125 of them, can be real power machines,” said Ralph Nader, in his opening remarks.

In attendance on Tuesday at about 3 p.m., a reported 197 students, staff, parents and press crowded in the Diablo room while 160 others, remained in the food court overflow seating area.

“I’m here because I have an assignment for a class,” said Salam Molina, a current DVC student. “To sum up everything he said, it was basically power to the people…” she continues, “we all have to come together to know what we’re doing, so that we can use that power.”

Coming together in unity was one of the ways Nader lead his speech on how to make the community colleges of California a power structure. Currently in California there are 113 community colleges. According to the US Census Bureau, young adult voters between the ages of 18 through 24 have consistently voted at lower rates than all other age groups in every presidential election since 1962.

With Nov. 8th quickly approaching, some students and a few parents lined up at the conclusion of Nader’s speech for a few questions regarding this year’s Election Day.

“I believe in voting with your conscience. If you don’t vote with your conscience and you vote for the least worst [candidate], you lose all bargaining power…” Nader said, urging students to go out and vote, “if we want to design this country different, I wouldn’t put that much power in congress or the President.”

When asked how hearing Ralph Nader’s speech will influence their vote this coming Election Day, Vanessa West, a current DVC student said, “I actually learned a lot…I completely understand when he says we should support the green party because there are so many political aspects that are represented there that are from both sides. But ultimately, I side more with Hillary so it hasn’t influenced much.  As young people it’s really important that we strive for success not just for ourselves but for everyone, to make a difference.”

As the questions concluded, one student came forth inquiring of the importance of even voting in this election. Nader responded, “It’s important to vote because the constitution puts such power in the hands of the President. First they can block a lot of things, they can veto or tell congress, their allies, not to pass, and pull medicare for all, for example. That can lead to what’s called the bully pulpit.”

Nader continued, “Congress is surrendering its duties under the constitution and giving it to the President… so therefore it’s very important.”