“Democracy is a process, not a static condition. It is becoming rather than being. It can easily be lost, but never is fully won. Its essence is eternal struggle.”
– William Henry Hastie
Is America possible without a free fully democratic process equally accessible to all citizens? Our three-pronged approach is geared to honor the past, celebrate the present, and challenge the future. It is aimed at changing the culture of voting from a chore to a joyful celebration.
Honor the Past.
Voting Vanguards brings to light the names of the hundreds who worked at great personal peril to obtain and maintain the right to vote and have their vote count. We celebrate voting as the centerpiece of creating and maintaining a healthy democracy.
Celebrate the Present.
The Votingest City Challenge is a joyous competition celebrating cities with the highest percentage of eligible voter participation. The prize is a trophy honoring those who have fought for voting rights. Using the Stanley Cup model, the trophy is held by the winning cities until another city takes their title.
Challenge the Future.
Early education and participation in schools can breathe life into the phrase “We the People” and strengthen the democratic foundation of our country. With the By a Show of Hands Student Voting Project, kids are registered to be student voters, create ballot initiatives, campaign, vote, and review the process in a fun, engaging year-long program.