Court The Vote

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is proud to announce an exciting and timely new initiative that addresses our Equity Imperative strategic plan’s Goals I.B. (Work more closely with the D. C. Public and Public Charter Schools) and III.B. (Widen and Deepen Learning Experiences).

Established in 2019 on the Van Ness Campus of UDC, “Court the Vote” aims to encourage UDC students and young voters with strong commitments to social justice to take daily actions to increase awareness and participation around voting and other civic engagement mechanisms, like the US Census, which are inherently tied to their rights.

Awareness about the impact of voting on the Supreme Court and the federal and state judiciary on vital rights is not equally shared in America.  While many active and potential voters care deeply about preserving the rights that are at risk of disappearing or being drastically curtailed, this voting bloc does not always draw an immediate connection between their votes and social change. Additionally, many are only somewhat aware of the seismic and outsized effect that their vote in 2020 and beyond will have on the court system and subsequently their rights.

Through individual and group-driven activism, “Court the Vote” will leverage traditional and social media, including the power of fun viral campaigns like the ALS Bucket Challenge, and University and community resources and partnerships.

Every day there are more warriors who want to get involved in the good fight that we, as a collective humanity regardless of race, religion, creed or political party will have to fight to ensure active participation in our democracy. “Court the Vote” will help organize that army and facilitate non-partisan collaboration for those who are dedicated to helping America fulfill its lofty ideals.