Wanted:

• Republicans, Democrats and members of other parties
• People with no parties
• First-time voters and candidate wannabes
• Potential protestors and organizers
• Information seekers
• Future  movers and shakers

All are invited to learn about making voices heard at the Elgin Area Civic Engagement Fair from 2 to 4 pm June 24 at Gail Borden Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin.

“This event will present ‘one-stop shopping’ for those seeking information about getting involved in local, state and federal government as well as learning how to vote, run for office, volunteer to improve the community, contact government officials and more,” said Beth Kruger of the League of Women Voters. “We all benefit when people get involved locally.”

More than 20 local organizations will be available to answer the “how to” questions about becoming active in your government. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn how to:

• Register to vote. Voter registrars from The League of Women Voters of the Elgin Area will be able to register visitors. Citizens will need to provide two pieces of identification.
• Use the voting machine by practicing on an e-slate.
• Discover the different political parties. The event is nonpartisan, but there will be information tables for Kane County republicans and democrats plus organizations across the spectrum: tea party, democratic socialists, progressives, and more.
• Contact your legislators and learn what form of communication is most effective.
• Evaluate news sites. Gail Borden Public Library will teach criteria for considering real news, fake news, and alternative facts.
• Advocate for an issue. Nonpartisan groups such as American Association of University Women, Citizens Climate Lobby, Elgin Cooperative Ministry, Fox Valley Citizens for Peace and Justice, Centro de Information, and similar groups offer information on how to take action for your particular cause.
• Become personally active. Volunteer for an Elgin city commission, run for office, serve as a campaign manager, assist a campaign. Learn about the fall YWCA and LWVEA Running for Office workshop.

Also, local elected officials have been invited to meet and greet. Elgin Mayor David Kaptain will give opening remarks at 2 pm. Light refreshments will be served.

The fair will be presented by The League of Women Voters of the Elgin Area and co-sponsored by the Gail Borden Public Library District.

SOURCE: The League of Women Voters of the Elgin Area news release