With nearly 113 million eligible voters among Gen Z and millennials, this demographic is poised to become the largest voting bloc in history for the upcoming election. Their collective voice has the power to shape the future.
However, many young voters are feeling disillusioned. A recent report by the Berkeley Institute for Young Americans[1] reveals a concerning trend of low turnout among these voters, driven by anxiety over pressing issues such as economic inequality, climate change, and the future of democracy.
To address this challenge, the Civic Wisdom Foundation—founded by civic entrepreneur Dr. Shannon Arvizu—has partnered with purpose-driven creative agency David&Goliath and a diverse group of industry creators including Van’s General Store, Union Editorial, Barking Owl, and Spacedog Co to launch #SpeakYourVote. This nonpartisan initiative aims to educate, inspire, and mobilize young voters, with a goal of registering 50,000 new voters nationwide.
The campaign features a powerful Spoken Word poetry piece by the artist Keys Will, showcasing the impact young voters can have as agents of change.
The #SpeakYourVote campaign came to life during an electrifying opening night, October 8th, at the legendary Bowery Poetry Club in New York City. The event drew an inspiring mix of influencers, creators, and poets, alongside dynamic local leaders, including New York City Council member Chi Osse.
Attendees were not just spectators; they actively engaged in passionate dialogues about the future of New York City. The evening resonated with the powerful voices of talented young poets, whose performances ignited the room and underscored the urgent call for civic engagement. This was not just an event; it was a movement, a gathering of minds and hearts ready to reshape the narrative of their community.
The #SpeakYourVote movement also unites influencers nationwide to harness the power of their platforms. Together they share compelling content that not only educates young voters about voter rights, but also confronts critical issues of generational identity, community inequality, and the importance of civic engagement. By channeling their influence, these advocates are steering their followers to www.speakyourvote.com to facilitate voter registration.
The campaign culminated in a powerful #SpeakYourVote Pop-Up event in Los Angeles on October 19-20 at 1306 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, CA.
The dynamic weekend inspired and ignited change with Dr. Shannon Arvizu leading civic keynotes and performances by an incredible line-up of Los Angeles-based artists, actors, and musicians. From the soulful sounds of gifted singer/songwriter Asdru Sierra, co-founder of the multi-Grammy Award winning, multicultural band Ozomatli, who debuted two brand-new tracks exclusively at the event; to spoken word poet and musician, Karen Gibson Roc; to Sheila Darcey, founder of SketchPoetic, to famed Los Angeles multi-media and mural artist Robert Vargas who created a stunning portrait live. Grown Kid Podcast co-host Gael Aitor and esteemed community leader, justice advocate and candidate for California State Assembly Franky Carrillo round out this impressive showing of unity to inspire more young people to register and vote.
And, in a memorable past meets present moment, Abraham Lincoln made an indelible appearance – yes, an impersonator brought history to life at the branded #SpeakYourVote podium, a powerful symbol of this movement that has traveled the streets of New York and Los Angeles, empowering people with the platform to voice their vote.
Dr. Arvizu emphasizes the necessity of this movement: “Educating and activating our youth is crucial for a vibrant democracy. Together, we can amplify their voices and drive real change.”
“What we hope to inspire in young people is that voting is a team effort,” added Dr. Arvizu. “When Gen Z and millennials show up in record numbers this election, they will send a loud message to our leaders that we are here – we are active citizens who care about our future.”
For more information, visit www.speakyourvote.com to check your voter registration status, find polling places, and register to vote.
[1] https://youngamericans.berkeley.edu/risk-generation/
CREDITS
Shannon Arvizu, Ph.D., Executive Director of Civic Wisdom Foundation & Founder of Epic Teams
Agency: DAVID&GOLIATH
David Angelo, Founder & Creative Chairman; Ben Purcell, Chief Creative Officer; Michael Molinaro, ECD/Design Director; Andrea Vega, Associate Creative Director, Writer; Ambrosio Ballon, Associate Creative Director, Art Director (Brown (Remix) – Creative Content); Michele Tebbe, Chief of Client Services; Brendan Robertson, Chief Strategy Officer; Amy Chiang, Chief of Integration; Jeff Cannata, Groups Comms Director; Jeanann Grubbs, Group Account Director; Alanie Abron, Strategist; Paul Albanese, Managing Director, Broadcast Production; Curt O’Brien, Group Executive Producer, Broadcast Production; Christopher Coleman, Group Executive Producer; Peter Bassett, Managing Director, Integrated Production; Quynh-An Phan, Director of Business Affairs;
Van’s General Store
Scott Carlson, Founder & CCO; Jonnathan Araujo, Head of Operations & Partner
Overdog NYC
Greg Collins, Founder, CCO & CW
Spacedog Co
Fred Focus, Director
Spinach Editorial
Jonathan Carpio, Executive Producer; Adam Bright, Managing Director/Editor
Barking Owl
Kirkland Alexander Lynch, CEO; Carol Dunn, Managing Director; Johanna Cranitch, Creative Director; KC Dossett, Executive Producer; Kelly Bayett
Christian Dupree Music
Christian Dupree, Songwriter/Producer
Union Editorial
Michael Raimondi, President/Managing Director; Caryn MacLean, Partner/Managing Director; Dani DuHadway Spagnoli, Head of Production; Melissa Lubin, Executive Producer; Vicki Russell, Executive Producer; Lauren Alvarez, Senior Producer; Rachael Connelly, Editor; Kevin Ray, Editor; Chris Huth, Editor; Laura Milstein, Editor; Drew Johnson, Assistant Editor; Katie Allison, Assistant Editor; Shelby Merritt, Finishing Artist
Music: Stock
Mix: Union ATX
Solani Media (Production Company)
Ruchi Mital, Foundress; Zachary Barnett, Co-founder
Outfront Media
DCW Media
