Photos from the event can be found here
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29, 2024
CONTACT: Imelda Mejia (she/hers), [email protected]
SAN MARCOS, Texas – A group of Texas youth civic engagement organizations today launched the “Float the Vote” campaign at the San Marcos River to boost youth voter registration and engagement ahead of the November election season.
“Float the Vote” was organized by the Texas Youth Power Alliance and Deeds Not Words. The Texas Youth Power Alliance (TYPA) was founded in 2018 by the largest youth civic engagement organizations in Texas: Texas Rising, Jolt Initiative, and MOVE Texas.
“We’re building the power of young Texans at the ballot box by meeting voters wherever they are, even if that’s on the river,” said Lexy Garcia (she/her), Texas Rising Statewide Program Manager. “Local and statewide elections have an immeasurable impact on our lives, and young Texans deserve leaders who will truly represent us. This November, we’re ready to become voters and fight for our futures at the polls.”
The event created an innovative opportunity for youth leaders to connect with prospective voters floating the river by using “Democracy Destinations” along the river, which featured music and food to attract potential new voters. Voter registrars were available both in and out of the water helping young Texans register and pledge to vote in upcoming elections.
“As homegrown organizers from a state as dynamic and vibrant as Texas, we know that relying on the same old tactics won’t cut it when engaging with young voters,” said Stephanie Gómez, MOVE Texas Political Director. “For that reason, MOVE Texas is always happy to work alongside the Texas Youth Power Alliance, Deeds Not Words, and the Center for Cultural Strategy to bring forward innovative, joyful programming with that well-known Texas flair. Democratic participation requires meeting people where they are, and that’s exactly what Float the Vote aims to do. We will continue to bring joyful democratic engagement to every part of the Lone Star State through November 2024 and beyond.”
“Now more than ever it is important to show young people the power their ballot holds and the impact it can have in communities across Texas,” said Shelly Baker, Deeds Not Words Political Director. “At Deeds Not Words, along with the Texas Youth Power Alliance and the Center for Cultural Strategy, we aim to get young people excited about the upcoming elections while bringing back joy into organizing. Float the Vote aligns with our mission to empower young Texans by involving them in the democratic process. This is how we reach young voters and bring them along for the ride throughout the state and into the November elections. We’re making civic engagement as easy as a summer day on the river.”
The groups will continue to do nonpartisan Get Out The Vote work leading into the November 2024 elections. They’ll focus on civic engagement and education for new and young voters.
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