Lawrence, KS- Students gathered at the Tommany Library on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 evening to hear from members of The Kansas Voter Network, Loud Light, and the Climate + Energy Project (CPE) to discuss the importance of “voting power” among young adults.
“Your voice and vote are crucial now more than ever because you have the ability to make changes and combat issues within your communities on a federal level,” noted Cristina Haswood, program director of CEP. She referred to the Save Act, a bill that has yet to be passed by the Senate but has the potential to disenfranchise millions of voters.
Meanwhile, KJ McDonald, a member of the Kansas Voter Network, shared statistics showing that Native populations have the lowest registered-voter rate in the U.S. at 32%. They encouraged students to register because they would like to see these numbers rise, with McDonald expressing, “It’s never too late to get involved and engage with issues that matter to you.”
Haswood also reflected on indigenous issues that affected students in the past, such as the display of eagle feathers on graduation caps, which relate to Native American religious freedom. “It’s important to not only be involved in State and government elections but Tribal elections as well. We have a duty as sovereign people to protect the laws that affect our land and communities. We have a voice. We should use it.”
These civic organizations covered topics such as where and how to register to vote, how to obtain identification cards, how to read ballots, and election deadlines. There are also opportunities for students to earn funds by helping others register to vote, as well as paid summer training and internships that enhance the culture of civic engagement.
If you are interested and would like to be involved, you can visit bit.iy/tvnpaid, Loudlight.org, or search for CEP Internship Program to get involved now. Don’t forget that the primary election deadline is August 3, 2026, and the general election is November 3, 2026. Register now!
