Rochester Reporter

The City of Rochester, in partnership with the Monroe County Board of Elections, is organizing voter registration and education events at five R-Centers during National Voter Education Week from October 7 to 11. The initiative aims to educate citizens on various aspects of the voting process.

Staff and volunteers from the Board of Elections will be present to offer information on topics such as the democratic process, voter registration, polling site locations, reading a ballot, and creating an action plan for voting. Resources will also be available to help overcome barriers to voting, including Language Access devices capable of translating over 300 languages, tools for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, visibility technology for those with sight challenges, and Spanish and ASL interpreters.

Mayor Malik D. Evans emphasized the importance of being informed about voting: “Becoming a confident voter is one of the most powerful things a citizen can do to improve our democracy and keep it strong and healthy.” He added that National Voter Education Week provides an opportunity for residents to become well-informed and potentially assist others in navigating the voting process. "I grateful for our partnership with the County Board of Elections as we empower all residents to assuredly cast their ballot on November 5."

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello highlighted the significance of voting: “Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy—it shapes the future of our community, our county, and our country." He stressed that it is crucial for every resident not only to register but also feel empowered when they vote this November. “Monroe County deeply appreciates the partnership between our Board of Elections and the City of Rochester in educating voters and removing barriers to ensure voting is accessible to all.”

The schedule for these educational sessions includes:

- Monday, Oct. 7 at David F. Gantt R-Center: Focus on registering to vote.

- Tuesday, Oct. 8 at Frederick Douglass R-Center: Guidance on finding polling sites.

- Wednesday, Oct. 9 at Carter Street R-Center: Understanding ballots.

- Thursday, Oct. 10 at Hope R-Center: Information on becoming an election inspector or Spanish interpreter.

- Friday, Oct. 11 at The Honorable Willie Walker Lightfoot R-Center for Equity: Planning an action plan for voting.

Voter registration materials are available across city R-Centers as well as City and County branch libraries, post offices, and Department of Motor Vehicle locations.

National Voter Education Week is a nonpartisan initiative aimed at educating voters annually during the first full week of October.