On Sat., Oct. 24 via Zoom young people can learn the ins and outs of casting their ballots
CLARK COUNTY — Will you be voting for the first time on Nov. 3?
The League of Women Voters and the Fort Vancouver Regional Library (FVRL) are sponsoring a free, online presentation for teens titled “Your Voice, Your Vote: Teen Voting 101” from 1-2 p.m. Sat., Oct. 24.
“We’ll show you what a ballot looks like, how to register, and what to expect,” said Mary Schick, a volunteer with the League of Women Voters of Clark County who will be presenting on Saturday.
If you’re not old enough to vote, the organizers will also offer ways for young people to get involved in their community and have their voices heard.
“Voting is important for everyone, but for young people in particular the candidates they chose may impact their lives 20, 30 and even 40 or more years from now,” Schick added.
Participants in this online program will need a computer, tablet or phone. An email with the agenda and links to join will be emailed to registrants a few days and then one hour before the program begins.
“We wanted to just lower the barriers to voting,” said Annika Robbins, the teen services librarian with FVRL. “In the last major presidential election, there was nationally a low voter turnout based on the number of folks who voted, in comparison to the number of folks who were registered. It’s my belief that democracy works better when as many people can participate as possible.”
Robbins explained that their aim is to eliminate any anxiety new voters feel when navigating the world of ballots, voting laws and even where to take their ballot.
You can register here: https://fvrl.librarymarket.com/your-voice-your-vote-teen-voting-101
The League of Women Voters of Clark County is a nonpartisan civic organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
Membership in the League is open to all. With 100 years of experience, the League is one of America’s oldest and most trusted civic nonprofit organizations.
“Maybe we can encourage a few people who would have otherwise been on the sidelines to participate,” Robbins said. “That’s worth it.
