"The ballot is the only safety."
– Frederick Douglass, Life and Times of Frederick Douglass
The Frederick Douglass Award is given annually to high schools that register all eligible seniors to vote.
Among the many great leaders from our nation’s history, Secretary Adams chose one of his favorites to exemplify through this award - Frederick Douglass. Douglass stands out as one of the greatest leaders in his generation and beyond. He overcame slavery and poverty, advocating for those who like him, did not have a recognized voice in the political process. He was a true leader from a young age. He understood and valued the meaning of the ballot box and civic engagement. Secretary Adams hopes through this award, high school students will recognize their sacred duty and register to vote.
The Award
The Frederick Douglass Award program is operated in partnership with
Kentucky YMCA Youth Association. The award encourages nonpartisan peer-to-peer voter registration efforts and is awarded to schools that register 100% of eligible seniors to vote.
How to Participate
Students who will be 18 years of age by the upcoming general election are eligible to register to vote. A teacher sponsor is required for a school to apply. Sponsors are responsible for submitting their application and independently verifying registration status of eligible students.
Schools interested in participating can do so here:
https://ymcayag.tfaforms.net/f/voter-reg
Deadline to participate: Friday, April 29th at 5 p.m.