Engaging Young Voters Through High School Initiatives
In the United States, high school students register to vote at much lower rates than older citizens. However, those who do register typically participate in elections at remarkable levels. Historical data reveals that since 2004, over 75% of registered individuals aged 18 to 24 have cast their ballots in presidential elections. With about 70% of teenagers living in areas where they can begin registering at just 16 years old, high school represents a crucial opportunity to promote active civic engagement.
Pioneering the Way with High School Voter Registration Week
The Civics Center has been leading the charge to boost voter registration among youth since its launch in 2018. This organization has created a nonpartisan initiative designed to assist high school students in coordinating voter registration efforts at their schools. The Civics Center adopts a two-pronged strategy: analyzing data to identify regions with low youth registration rates and empowering both teachers and students to conduct comprehensive voter registration drives nationwide.
Guidance from a Notable Advocate
Leading The Civics Center is Laura W. Brill, the Founder and CEO, who has a rich background in law and advocacy. Having worked directly with Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Brill asserts that voter registration for students should be viewed as a fundamental part of the high school experience—on par with participating in Prom, Homecoming, or engaging in school sports.
A Nationwide Effort: High School Voter Registration Week
Upcoming is a nationwide event called “High School Voter Registration Week”, taking place from September 23-27. This initiative aims to rally high schools across the country to organize voter registration drives. The goal is to ensure that eligible students are ready to vote in the upcoming elections.
Breaking Down Barriers to Civic Participation
Even with enthusiasm for engaging in democracy, some educators hesitate to raise the topic of elections in their classrooms. The Civics Center strongly believes that voter registration goes beyond political affiliations; it's fundamentally about cultivating an engaged and participatory democracy.
The Potential Impact of Youth Registration
Each year, around four million young people reach voting age. In competitive electoral states, the sheer volume of new 18-year-olds can greatly exceed typical margins of victory. Despite this potential, only about 30% of this age group is currently registered to vote. Fortunately, many states have laws allowing preregistration for those aged 16 or 17, making high schools the perfect venues for these initiatives.
Using Data for Effective Solutions
Analyzing voter registration data at a hyper-local level allows for targeted interventions. The Civics Center's innovative approach, using census data, produces resources like “Scorecards” and reports that highlight gaps in voter registration and participation, encouraging communities and stakeholders to improve.
Tackling Broader Access Issues for Registration
It’s important to recognize that traditional methods, like college-based voter registration or registering at the DMV, may not be sufficient. With roughly 40% of high school graduates not choosing to attend college, they may be delayed in mobilizing to vote—especially since about 40% of recent 18-year-olds don’t possess a driver’s license.
About The Civics Center
The Civics Center believes that peer-led voter registration efforts are powerful tools for engagement, offering invaluable lessons in citizenship. To support this, they produce a variety of free resources aimed at helping high school educators and students eager to enhance civic participation in their schools.
About Laura W. Brill
Laura W. Brill, the founder behind The Civics Center, has a notable legal background advocating for equal voting rights and enhancing youth participation. After graduating at the top of her class from Columbia Law School, she clerked for some of the nation’s highest courts and has dedicated over twenty years to promoting democratic engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is High School Voter Registration Week?
High School Voter Registration Week is a nationwide initiative encouraging eligible students to register to vote, occurring from September 23-27.
Why is voter registration important for high school students?
Voter registration is essential as it ensures that young individuals take part in democracy and have a say in decisions that impact their future.
How can students get involved in The Civics Center's initiative?
Students can engage by organizing voter registration drives at their schools, using resources provided by The Civics Center.
What support does The Civics Center offer?
The Civics Center provides free resources, tools, and guidance to high schools to assist in organizing voter registration drives.
Who leads The Civics Center?
Laura W. Brill is the Founder and CEO of The Civics Center, recognized for her advocacy and expertise in voting rights.
