Kids Vote

According to the U.S. Census, only 32% of eligible eighteen to twenty-four year olds exercised their right to vote. Something must be done to turn the tide.  We must work towards securing democracy for the future by involving youth in the election process today. Here are some online resources that educate, as well as involve young people in the voting process.

• Mock Election Utah - Here is an excellent opportunity for students to actively participate in the political process by simulating actual elections in their home schools.
• Rock the Vote - Founded in 1990, Rock the Vote is dedicated to protecting freedom of speech, educating young people about the issues that affect us, and motivating young people to participate by registering, voting, and speaking out.
  
• Kids Voting USA - This is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, national program that is followed in many schools. It has its own curriculum and encourages parents to take their children to the polling place with them when they vote on Election Day.
  
• Project Vote Smart - You will find facts on candidates and elected officials, including biographies, addresses, issue positions, voting records, campaign finances, and evaluations by special interests.
  
• A Guide To Campaign Definitions - C-SPAN in the Classroom defines nearly forty common campaign terms
  
• Elections in American Memory - This online Library of Congress collection reviews the history of voting in America, with links to source documents such as political posters and recorded debates.
  
• The PBS Kids Democracy Project - Learn how the government affects you or what is would be like to be the President for a day.