She’s enlisting the help of unconventional people.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama is utilizing her voter mobilization initiative, When We All Vote (WWAV), to encourage participation in the upcoming elections through engaging events featuring drag shows and a performance by rapper Cardi B. Launched in 2018, WWAV plans to organize 500 “Party at the Polls” events in various states, including Georgia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Nevada, leading up to Election Day. On October 29, Michelle Obama will headline a rally in Georgia, where she expressed her excitement to her substantial social media following about the importance of making a voting plan as early voting is currently in progress.
The initiative aims to turn early voting into a festive celebration by integrating music and celebrity appearances to attract voters in critical battleground states. A significant event in Arizona is set to feature performances by Drag Out the Vote, a group focused on mobilizing LGBTQ+ voters. Notable drag performers, including Barbra Seville and Afrika America, will host this event, highlighting the initiative’s inclusive approach to voter engagement.
In addition to the Arizona event, WWAV has scheduled another drag show in Nevada on October 29, which will feature a contestant from “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Actor Mark Ruffalo has also taken part in WWAV activities, recently attending an event in Arizona to promote voter turnout during his visit to the Navajo Nation. To incentivize voter participation, WWAV announced a sweepstakes on Instagram, offering registered voters a chance to win tickets to see Cardi B perform at ONE MusicFest in Atlanta, along with travel credits.
WWAV’s Executive Director, Beth Lynk, emphasized the significance of early voting, noting that the election process begins before Election Day. The upcoming rally is expected to unify various stakeholders and inspire first-time voters to participate actively. In a broader political context, Michelle Obama has also made headlines for her remarks at the Democratic National Convention, where she supported Vice President Kamala Harris and criticized former President Donald Trump on various issues, including race and women’s rights.
Overall, WWAV is focusing on innovative methods to mobilize voters through entertainment, fostering a sense of community and engagement in the electoral process. With the combination of celebrity involvement and grassroots initiatives, the organization seeks to encourage higher voter turnout and make the voting experience more enjoyable and accessible for all.
