SYED ALI RIZVI

SYED ALI RIZVI

Name: Syed Rizvi
Office Sought: Town Meeting Member Precinct 2
e-mail address: Alirizvi.resolv [at] gmail.commichaelschanbacherlexpb [at] gmail.com (
)phone number: 973-220-2713

Community Activities: 

  • Town meeting member since 2015
  • Treasurer, Indian Getting Involved Group -(The mission of iGIG is to actively reach, educate and encourage other Indian Americans to participate in the governance of the Town of Lexington and its committees)
  • Director, www.visionaid.org, a Lexington based non-profit, to help the visually impaired lead a life of independence and with dignity)
  • RETP volunteer - mentoring students since 2017 –
  • Former Bowman-UN Group volunteer 2005-2012 –
  • Member, Steering Committee, Building Respect in Diverse Groups to Enhance Sensitivity (BRIDGES)
  • Driver-Volunteer for FISH (volunteer rides to medical appointments for Lexington reidents)
  • Lexington resident for 19 years

Article 43 on the 2024 Town Warrant is asking if the Town will authorize and request the Select Board to petition the General Court of the Commonwealth for Home Rule Legislation to allow any citizens in the Town of Lexington, who have reached the age of 16 or older, to register and vote in municipal elections within the Town, or to take any action in relative thereto. Would you support this article? Why or why not?

Generally, I support the article for granting voting rights to 16-year-olds in municipal elections. Currently, low voter turnout in local elections is a concern, and extending voting eligibility to 16-year-olds could significantly boost civic engagement. It's unfair that the very individuals most affected by municipal decisions, lack a voice in shaping policies that impact their education. Allowing 16-year-olds to vote in town elections would empower them to influence decisions on school curricula, teachers, and programs, providing a platform for expressing their perspectives on issues directly affecting their lives. This move is not only just but also fosters a sense of responsibility, awareness, and civic participation among young citizens. I need some clarifications on this article, but do not think that it will impact my decision otherwise.