Yara Shahidi Shares Her 2020 Voting Plan in IGTV Event
Yara Shahidi to Hold Voting Plans Discussion With Her Peers: "We Are in This Space Together"
As the 2020 election approaches, the need to have an established voting plan becomes increasingly clear. And yet, it can be intimidating to know where to start. We're already battling a pandemic and voter suppression —taking the first step towards casting a ballot can feel like an insurmountable task, but it's so necessary. That's why actress Yara Shahidi and college kids from across the country are banding together to start an open conversation about developing a game plan before Nov. 3.
"As a first-time voter in 2018, I didn't realise the amount of research that was necessary to truly understand the sheer number of measures and candidates that I was voting on and for. This year, it is more important than ever to know where each candidate stands on the issues that matter most to you and the communities you care about," she told POPSUGAR.
"This year, it is more important than ever to know where each candidate stands on the issues that matter most to you and the communities you care about."
Shahidi continued, "The first step in creating your voting plan is to research! There are so many resources, from websites to even podcasts, that have state-specific information that can help make your decision process easier. Next, decide when, where, and how you plan to vote. In-person, absentee, mail-in, and even early voting are some of the options available! Lastly, and most importantly, know that we are in this space together — we are ALL doing our best to be prepared to make sure our voices are heard in this election."
"Remember, we can turn to our network of peers, family, teachers, and resource materials for support. Take the opportunity to have conversations with your friends about their voting plans, and encourage everyone you know to vote. Stay motivated, and let's get to the polls!"
On Oct. 7 at 12 p.m. ET, Shahidi will participate in a discussion produced by The Andrew Goodman Foundation, Students Learn Students Vote (SLSV) Coalition, Campus Vote Project, NAACP, and APIAVote, as part of Voter Education Week. She's been a vocal advocate for voting since before she was old enough to participate, and she understands that this process can be a daunting one. Get a preview of her conversation with her peers in the clip above, and make sure to tune into the discussion on her IGTV this afternoon.
