NJCDC Leads Youth of Paterson in GOTV Event

Youth from around Paterson joined forces on Saturday, November 1 to encourage Patersonians to vote on Election Day. Led by New Jersey Community Development Corporation, the non-partisan “get-out-the-vote” initiative demonstrated the enormous interest in this historic election by youth throughout the area. Participants traveled in groups throughout the city of Paterson, handing out flyers that include information on how to find citizen’s polling places, the hours of voting on Election Day, and issues that matter to the youth of Paterson.

NJCDC President Bob Guarasci expressed excitement about the event. “Youth throughout Paterson are really enthusiastic about this election, and rightfully so. When we had our first planning meeting with youth from various schools and programs, they discussed the issues that were most important to them and how this election could affect those issues. They talked about making sure there were student loans available for them to go to college, having stronger community policing in cities like Paterson, and providing better jobs in our community for them once they graduate. They also recognized local issues that require sustained youth involvement even after Election Day, like building a city-wide youth center and restoring Hinchcliffe Stadium for activities such as high school athletics and concerts. They understand that their voice matters and they want to make sure it is heard during this special moment in our nation’s history.”

All participants received a t-shirt that says “Vote for me…because I can’t.” As Mr. Guarasci stated, “We hope the t-shirts will remind the citizens of Paterson that they are responsible for those who aren’t yet old enough to vote. Adults need to consider carefully the issues that matter to the next generation of citizens in this city. We hope our united and non-partisan front on Saturday will do just that.”

The day began with breakfast at NJCDC headquarters at 32 Spruce Street at 9am. At 9:45am, youth marched in teams with a chaperone along Market Street to the Paterson City Hall for a “Citizen’s Rally.” From there, the teams spread out across the city from 10:15am-1pm to distribute flyers and encourage voting.

The day concluded with an after-party at NJCDC headquarters from 1pm-3pm. The gathering included food, music, and a raffle for prizes.