San Rafael, CA – National Voter Registration Dayis September 25, and the Marin County Elections Department is planning a series of nonpartisan events to mark the occasion.
Traditionally Marin County has a high voter participation rate, but according to data provided by the California Secretary of State’s Office, local residents who are eligible but not registered to vote can number over 20,000. The department recently implemented a program called Take the Challenge to reduce that number and encourage existing voters to help register new voters.
“National Voter Registration Day is a celebration of democracy and a reminder that participation by voting is important to our country,” said Marin County Registrar of Voters Lynda Roberts.
Registration events will be held from September 25 through September 29. This year’s partners include the Center for Independent Living, College of Marin, Dominican University Political Science Department, farmers markets in San Rafael and Novato, Latino Marin, the League of Women Voters of Marin County, North Bay Community Services, the Marin City Community Services District, the YMCA and the YWCA.
So far events are scheduled to be held at Novato and San Rafael farmers markets, Dominican University and College of Marin.
“Take the Challenge” and register five voters before the October 22 deadline – that includes pre-registering 16- and 17-year olds.
“Already we have more than 35 people who have accepted the challenge,” Roberts said. “So that will be at least 175 more people exercising their right to have their say in our democratic process. We’re hoping that type of participatory spirit goes viral.”
After October 22, people will be required to register and vote in the Elections Department at the Marin County Civic Center in San Rafael.
National Voter Registration Day was first observed in 2012 and the Marin County Elections Department participates by coordinating a week of promotions. Veda Florez, a communications consultant working with the Elections Department, organizes events and needs volunteers. Please email Florez at marinelections360@gmail.com for more information.
Can’t wait to register? Find the online voter registration form at www.registertovote.ca.gov