AUSTIN, Texas — With early voting beginning Monday, a No Kings event in Austin took a different approach today.
Instead of a traditional protest or march, organizers hosted a Halloween-themed election fair focused on voter education and participation.
With early voting beginning Monday, a No Kings event in Austin took a different approach today. (CBS Austin/Sebastian Esquivel)
Past No Kings events in Austin have brought crowds together for marches and rallies. But today, organizers traded the traditional protest for something different; an election fair with music, candy, and information about voting.
“We’re asking folks to do something that is a bit less traditional, in a sense,” Event lead, Courtney Szigetvari, said. “Getting creative with ways to get folks to the polls.”
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The event was called “No Kings: Don’t Ghost the Vote.”
Organizers offered sample ballots, information about polling locations, and talks about election protection.
Past No Kings events in Austin have brought crowds together for marches and rallies. But today, organizers traded the traditional protest for something different; an election fair with music, candy, and information about voting. (CBS Austin/Sebastian Esquivel)
For attendees who have participated in past No Kings marches, the change was noticeable.
“It’s not so much now a public protest as it is sort of an equipping and a learning,” event attendee, Howie Porter, said.
It wasn’t your typical political event. Instead of marching through the streets, people came together to have some fun, while also getting ready to head to the polls on Monday.
For attendees who have participated in past No Kings marches, the change was noticeable. (CBS Austin/Sebastian Esquivel)
Beyond the activities, organizers said the event was also an opportunity to bring people and local organizations together.
“My favorite part of this event is community,” Szigetvari said. “I think that building community is so important when it comes to protecting ourselves, protecting others, protecting our democracy.”
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Early voting begins Monday, October 19, with Election Day on November 3. (CBS Austin/Sebastian Esquivel)
And for those attending, the upcoming election was another reason to be there.
“I think a vote is an expression of your faith as well as your citizenship,” event attendee, Ginger Geyer, said. “And I just think it’s ultimately important to do.”
Organizers said they hope attendees leave with a plan to vote and the information they need before Election Day.
Early voting begins Monday, October 19, with Election Day on November 3.