Students for DC Vote to Distribute Advocacy 'Care Packages'
Students to Receive Supplies and Training to Help Spread Word on Voting Rights
July 20, 2009
Washington, DC - More than 100 students are expected to attend Students for DC Vote's Summer Send-off this Saturday, July 25. This annual event aims to engage DC-area students in advocacy on their college campuses.
"Students have always played a role in the movement for civil rights," said Ilir Zherka, DC Vote Executive Director. "Through events like this, we're giving students the tools they need to bring our message to college campuses across the nation."
Students will enjoy a BBQ lunch followed by the presentation of the DC Vote Young Activist Award, recognizing the work of area youth who have played a significant role in the movement for voting rights. Event attendees will receive "care packages" with essential school supplies, snacks and toiletries, along with an advocacy toolkit with information on DC voting rights.
"Our polling and research shows that nearly 80 percent of Americans don't even know that DC residents are denied voting representation in Congress," added Zherka. "Simply by telling their friends and sharing information, these students can play a crucial role in the fight for DC voting rights."
Zherka also noted that the same polling shows that once people are educated about the issue, that more than 80 percent support voting representation for District residents.
"I came to DC five years ago," said Erica Spell, DC Vote Public Affairs Associate and American University graduate student. "No one told me that I would have to give up my voting rights. I know I'm not alone in wanting to do my part to spread the word about this important issue to my fellow students. Our advocacy toolkits give students what they need to educate their friends and classmates about taxation without representation in DC."
- What: Students for DC Vote Summer Send Off BBQ
- When: Saturday, July 25, 11:00 AM - 3:30 PM
- Where: Rose Park at 26th and O Streets NW, Dupont Circle Metro
- Who: More than 100 area college students; Students for DC Vote
For more information, visit: www.dcvote.org/students
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