September, 16 2008, 11:00am EDT
Leauge of Women Voters Launches Voter Registration Challenge
Only Three Weeks Remain Until Deadlines in Many States
WASHINGTON
The
League of Women Voters continues to emphasize voter registration and
preparedness ahead of the 2008 general election. Today, LWV president
Mary G. Wilson announced the 2008 Registration Challenge, a project designed to encourage League activists and citizens alike to do their part to expand our electorate.
"This year has seen unprecedented energy among voters new and old,"
Wilson said. "During the primary season, we were thrilled to see
millions of new Americans-particularly women, African Americans, and
young people-register to vote and turn out at the polls. Election Day,
November 4th, is approaching rapidly, but there is still time to get registered before your state's deadline.
"NOW is the time for all of us to think of five friends, family members, or colleagues who may not be registered to vote, and ask them to get started at www.VOTE411.org. Research
shows that a personal request greatly increases one's chances of
registering. Everyone can help by encouraging people they know to be a
part of this important election," Wilson continued.
VOTE411.org is a one-stop-shop for voting resources and information.
From an online registration tool to a nationwide polling place look-up,
absentee ballot and overseas voting information, the site has
everything voters need to know about navigating the voting process in
their state.
The League has created a series of public service announcements aimed at encouraging voters to express themselves by registering and voting on November 4th. The PSAs are available for free use by broadcasters in 20 second, 30 second, and 60 second formats.*
This year, the League of Women Voters is also working with a range
of groups, including American Express, the Every Woman Counts
Coalition, the Freedom of Expression through Film campaign, the
National Head Start Association, Newspaper in Education Institute,
Overseas Vote Foundation, Smackdown Your Vote!, Yahoo!, YWCA and many
more to encourage voter registration and participation, particularly
among underrepresented populations.
"This election is an important one for our country, and the outcome
is in our hands," Wilson concluded. "Thousands of League volunteers are
rolling up their sleeves to register voters in communities all over the
country-but we need your help to truly make democracy work. Please take
a moment to let a friend know about the resources available at www.VOTE411.org."
* To obtain a beta copy of the PSA stations should contact Karen Crow, kcrow@westglen.com, 1800-325-8677 ext 243.
The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, has fought since 1920 to improve our systems of government and impact public policies through citizen education and advocacy. The League's enduring vitality and resonance comes from its unique decentralized structure. The League is a grassroots organization, working at the national, state and local levels.
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