Show Up Strong and REC Philly are Uniting to Engage Young Voters With a Day-Long Event
Show Up Strong, a non-profit “dedicated to amplifying and empowering the voice of a generation,” is partnering with REC Philly to host a day-long event aimed at energizing and mobilizing young voters. Taking place on April 19 from 12:00PM until 1:00AM.
Over the next seven months, the organization is hosting and partnering on events across the state, meeting young people where they are and encouraging them to take civic action by registering to vote. Through a series of activations, panels, workshops, and a celebratory party, the April 19th event aims to “inspire and equip the next generation of leaders with the tools and knowledge they need to make a difference,” Show Up Strong states.
The event will kick off with an open house geared towards high school and college-aged students designed to spark conversation and ignite passion among attendees. From interactive art installations to thought-provoking performances powered by Mural Arts Philadelphia, Voices
in Power, and more, participants will have the opportunity to express themselves and explore pressing issues facing their communities.
The afternoon will include a series of panels and workshops featuring some of the most influential voices in art, music, and community:
● 3pm-4pm (Panel): Heal The Homies: Fostering Mental Wellness Together Featuring
Michell C Clark, moderated by Roxy Romeo
● 4pm-5pm (Workshop): Your Voice, Your Vote: Understanding The Inner-Workings Of The
System Featuring: Dyymond Whipper-Young
● 5pm-6pm (Panel): Voice Of The Streets: Exploring Street Art As A Catalyst For Social
Change Featuring: Gianni Lee, King Saladeen, Darryl “Cornbread” McCray, moderated
by Brandon ‘Jinx’ Jenkins
● 6pm-7pm (Panel): Click To Action: Using Social Media To Amplify Activist Voices
Featuring Marc Lamont Hill, moderated by Sofiya Ballin
All panels and workshops are geared towards providing invaluable insights for young voters
eager to make an impact.
The day will end with Jefatonas Just Wanna Have Funds: A Networking Mixer & Pitch Competition presented by Delilah Dee from 7-10 pm, followed by Peer Pressure, a game night party, produced by 6ix 8ight to close out “stronger together.” “We are thrilled to host this event alongside our friends at REC and to have the opportunity to engage with and inspire this young generation,” said Kevin Mack, founder of Show Up Strong.
“Voting was once considered fun and cool, and we hope that by meeting this generation where they are and integrating into their culture and communities, registering to vote and getting excited about big issues will become one more thing people can do along the way.”
Currently, there are 1,000,943 eligible 18-43 year old voters in PA that are not yet registered to vote. Among currently registered 18-43 year olds, less than half (49.1%) voted in 2022 in PA. The turnout was even worse in Philadelphia, with 42.8% participation. Due to COVID, many people who would have normally registered during the last Presidential election did not have the opportunity. This means the voter registration need is greater now, particularly for young people.
“At REC, we believe in the power of art and community to inspire people to act,” said David Silver, founder of REC. “We’re excited to provide a platform for youth voters to come together, learn from one another, and inspire change, and to show the world how Philly shows up strong.”
The event is open to people of all backgrounds and political affiliations. Registration is available here and is free but limited. In addition to the programming, four lucky attendees who verify their voter registration will get one month’s rent paid, up to $2,000.
