There is no better way to make elections real to kids than this award-winning documentary about the first-ever election in a third-grade classroom in China. In Please Vote for Me 
, the children are completely unfamiliar with even the concept of a genuine election and their parents and teachers don’t know much more. The office at stake is class monitor and the campaigns are as cutthroat, heart-felt, and heart-breaking as any election anywhere. Though its subtitles make it unsuitable for the youngest children, it is an outstanding introduction to the benefits and costs of democracy and a great way to start a conversation about what we look for in the people who deserve our votes.
Nell, I saw this when it was on Independent Lens or something, and I was riveted every minute – even though the entire thing was in Chinese. Great film to highlight!
All the best
Joanne Brokaw
Gospel Soundcheck blog
Great film! Such an interesting microcosm of democracy all around the world. I found that it is actually part of a documentary series called “Why Democracy?” (www.whydemocracy.net) There are some other fantastic films about democracy in the series.
Thanks, Joanne! I am a fan of your blog and it is an honor to have your support for this wonderful film.
And thanks, Mika! I did not know it was part of a series and look forward to checking out the other films. I have an upcoming post on ten great documentaries about elections, so stay tuned.