Today, Sept. 20, we mark National Black Voter Day, a day dedicated to highlighting the power and influence of the Black vote in shaping the future of our nation.
Recently, the NAACP unveiled its latest polling results, revealing critical insights into the priorities and attitudes of millions of infrequent Black voters. Conducted in partnership with Hart Research and HIT Strategies, this research is a cornerstone of the NAACP’s multi-million dollar civic engagement program, targeting 14.5 million voters across 12 key states.
The newly released polling data revealed several key takeaways:
- Over half of Black voters (53%) believe that protecting their rights and freedoms should be the highest priority for elected leaders, surpassing economic concerns (40%) and other issues (7%).
- Economic concerns, particularly inflation’s impact on everyday essentials like food, housing, and utilities, are the biggest stressors for Black voters.
- Most notably, 78% of Black voters are as excited or even more excited about voting now than they were when President Obama first ran for office, with 56% feeling more energized than in 2008.
This enthusiasm reflects the tangible impact of the Black vote in recent years. From progress on student loan forgiveness and state-level protections for reproductive rights to the historic appointment of the first Black woman to the U.S. Supreme Court, Black voices have made themselves heard. These achievements serve as a powerful reminder that every election, every year, matters.
As National Black Voter Day reminds us, it is our responsibility to vote in the best interest of Black people, because we know what it takes to thrive in America.
To know your voting options and report voting incidents, visit the NAACP at naacp.org/campaigns/power-your-vote.
If you live in the state of Illinois, here is some key information you need to cast your vote on Nov. 5:
Who Can Register to Vote in Illinois?
To register to vote in Illinois, residents must meet the following criteria, according to the Illinois Board of Elections:
- Be a U.S. Citizen
- Be 18 years of age or older on Election Day
- Live in a precinct for at least 30 days prior to the election
- Not be serving a jail sentence as a result of a conviction
- Not claim the right to vote anywhere else
Automatic Voter Registration in Illinois
Illinois offers automatic voter registration (AVR) under a law passed in 2017. Here’s how it works:
- REAL ID-Compliant License: Residents applying for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license will be automatically registered to vote unless they choose to opt out.
- Non-REAL ID-Compliant License: Applicants for non-REAL ID licenses will be asked if they would like to register to vote.
For more details, head to the website of the Secretary of State’s Office.
How to Register to Vote
In-Person or By Mail:
Illinois residents can register to vote in several ways:
- Online: Register here.
- In-Person: At the office of the election authority, Driver’s license facilities, or with deputy registrars appointed in each jurisdiction.
- By Mail: Complete the Illinois Voter Registration Application (available in English and Spanish) and submit it to your local county clerk’s office. You can find the forms here.
- Deadline: The registration form must be submitted in person or postmarked by October 8 to be valid for the 2024 election. Check with your county clerk’s office for details.
Online Registration:
- Deadline: Online registration is available until October 20. Check your registration status and register here.
Grace Period Registration
Missed the deadline? Don’t worry—you can still register:
- Where: Visit your local county clerk’s office or participating polling places during early voting.
- What You Need: Bring the required documents and identification, which can be found on the Illinois Board of Elections website.
Same-Day Registration
Same-day voter registration is available at select polling places. Check the Board of Elections website for locations and details.
For more information, including confirming your voter registration status, visit the Illinois Board of Elections website. Don’t miss your chance to make your voice heard this election season!