SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Robert Peters – in collaboration with a coalition of civic advocates – is honoring the legacy of civil rights leaders like Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., who believed the ballot is the most powerful tool for change. To fulfill Jackson’s vision of ensuring every student graduates with both a diploma and voter registration card, Peters advanced a measure that would recognize education and civic engagement go hand in hand.
“This measure honors the life and legacy of civil rights pioneer Rev. Jesse Jackson and his vision of ensuring youth participation in our nation’s democracy,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Illinois has been a leader for progress, and connecting voter registration directly with high school graduation will keep us on our path of removing barriers and implementing equity for all.”
Studies show that people who vote earlier in life are more likely to remain active voters and participants in their communities for decades to come, yet high school students are not automatically provided the resources needed to register once they age into the electorate.
Peters’ measure would ensure school districts serving students in grades nine through 12 provide all eligible graduating students with the opportunity to register to vote before they receive their diploma. The goal is to make civic engagement as natural and expected as earning a high school diploma.
“This bill not only serves as a message to our state’s youth that we entrust them with our future, it also solidifies voting as a cornerstone of our democracy and ensures all graduating high school students know the power and influence their voice can have on policy,” Peters added.
Peters worked closely with the civic coalition Chair Dr. Jo Ann Roberts, who organized directly with Jackson and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition for decades, as well as Cook County Commissioner Tara Stamps, Devorah Crable, Letina Brady Pettis, Betty Magness, Frederique Desrosiers and Jane Ruby to support the measure.
House Bill 4339 passed the Senate Friday and heads to the governor for further consideration.
