Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon visited Oak Park and River Forest High School to greet student election judges Thursday as the school hosted an early voting event for employees and students.
Five trained and certified student election judges participated in what organizers called a “Teen Takeover for Democracy.” It’s part of an effort that turns suburban high schools into early voting locations, giving students and faculty who are eligible and live in Cook County a chance to cast a vote in the upcoming Nov. 3 midterm election.
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Gordon welcomed the students, acknowledging that what they were doing will create the next generation of voters.
She said she wanted to shift the term “teen takeover” from its negative connotation and turn it into a positive by showcasing the efforts of OPRF students.
“I wanted to come out and thank the election judges because we can’t do this without them,” Gordon said. “To see students serve as election judges and vote in the election is amazing to me.”
Elliott Mayeda, an OPRF junior, said he and the other election judges were selected by a teacher to be a part of the event. He agreed because being involved would be a learning opportunity and an extension of a civics class he’s currently taking. Even beyond the educational aspect, Mayeda was excited to be able to participate in the event as he deems voting a “civic duty of citizens.”
“It’s hard for people to fight for change if they’re not going to step up and do their part and vote for who they believe in, and do their even small part to help fight for their beliefs,” he said.
Olivia Smith, another election judge, said she’s always found the election process interesting, despite not being able to vote yet.
“I thought it would be a cool opportunity,” Smith said.
Emerson Carizey, a senior, was excited for the opportunity to cast her vote.
“I think voting is a way to be part of your community and contribute back to the public,” Carizey said. “I think it’s good to take a stand, especially during these midterms, because I think it’s very difficult right now.”
Carizey’s friend and fellow election judge Clarabella Croisant helped her get registered to vote. Croisant was also an election judge last year and said she wanted to register as many of her friends who are eligible to vote as she could.
The Teen Takeover for Democracy program was developed in partnership with the Chicago Bears and gives students the opportunity to check-in voters, issue ballots and oversee the voting process. The first program took place before the primary elections in March.
Seeing students involved in the voting process early in their lives was gratifying for Gordon, she said. By getting students interested in this process early, it gives them the opportunity to build trust in it and will be something that will stick with them forever, she said.
“This is what keeps me up at night — wondering how do we create that bridge between the next generation and civic engagement, and this is it. Participation at work; I’m seeing it with my own eyes,” she said.
Younger people may be disconnected from the historic sacrifices made so that people have human rights, including voting, today, Gordon said. But, she said, events like these can get young people involved and make an impact on the future.
“Seeing this gives me so much hope, so much hope that they’re in good hands.”