High School Voter Registration

The High School Voter Registration Project is a nationwide effort to encourage young people--especially young minorities--to register to vote. Leagues are working in key states to engage and empower young people to participate in our democracy.

Why now?

Research shows that it is possible to create long-term change by encouraging life-long civic participation from young people: 91 percent of registered voters under the age of 30 reported casting a ballot in 2008. However, Americans under the age of 30 remain severely underrepresented in the electorate, and the disparities in youth voting grow even wider when looking at African-Americans, Latinos, and those with no college experience. What’s more, many youth registration drives target college campuses, missing the 43 percent of Americans with no college experience.

From the economy to the future of health care and our energy security, our elected officials are making decisions now that will affect today’s youth for decades to come. Young voters have a critical voice to lend. The League aims to empower young people to stand up and make the most of their right to vote.That’s why we believe it is vital to reach America’s future voters while they are still in high school.

How can I get involved?

Find your local League to get involved in youth engagement or other democracy-related activities in your community!