Delegate Spotlight: Michelle Hannahs

This was my third trip with a SHARE delegation to serve as an election observer in El Salvador. On each trip, I have learned more about the history and concerns of the people of El Salvador. Some of it is very disturbing because it involves injustice and murder of innocent citizens by agents of the U.S. government. Our group visited the chapel where Monsignor Romero was assassinated, and we heard some of the details of this horrific event. It seems that in the many years since Romero’s death, information about U.S. involvement becomes more evident. Of course, the U.S. also armed pro-government forces during El Salvador’s civil war, including death squads that murdered thousands of innocent citizens. Yet, Salvadorans choose to settle in the U.S., and one of the largest concentrations is in the area where I live, metropolitan Washington, DC.
These great contradictions continue in the policies and practices of our current federal government, which has become very anti-immigrant, and particularly unjust to people of color. I was treated with such warmth and respect during my time in El Salvador; at the polling places, many Salvadorans approached me and asked about where I come from and how I became an election observer; they told me of their travels in the U.S. and several said they had lived in the U.S. for several years. On the most recent trip, I felt uncomfortable to be an American and wondered if anyone would show hostility toward me or other members of the delegation.
SHARE does an amazing job of organizing and leading the delegations.  On my first trip, for the presidential election in 2014, we spent several days in orientation, including lectures by an economist and visits to historic sites as well as visiting community based programs which were improving the lives of women and the poor. We met with leaders such as a mayor and several mothers of children who “disappeared” during the civil war. We went to candidate forums. We were hosted by a former ambassador at his beautiful home. The SHARE staff held many discussions so that we could reflect on our experiences and ask questions about  what we were learning. I feel that all of the activities are very carefully chosen and well planned so that delegates will better understand what is at stake in having a free and fair election process. The other delegates come from all over the U.S. as well as Canada and Mexico. The range of ages and professions was surprising. We had two college students in our group, as well as at least two senior citizens (that’s me!) The thoughtfulness and assistance from SHARE staff who accompanied our group was exceptional.
I think the most exciting part of observing the election is the vote counting.  When the president of the precinct (table) held up each ballot, it was just thrilling. I wish U.S. elections had such transparency.
There is much more I could say about my memorable service with SHARE delegations, but I conclude that I will be returning to participate in a future delegation. I thank SHARE for the opportunity to meet fascinating people and for working to improve confidence in the electoral process.

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