Actions

'An issue everybody can stand by': Artists use music to get young people to vote

Posted at 7:54 PM, Oct 23, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-23 20:54:36-04

MILWAUKEE — You could call them beats for ballots. Four young artists using their talents to encourage younger adults to vote. All were commissioned by the Wisconsin Conservation Voices, "Voice The Vote" campaign. Its goal is to make the voices of underrepresented communities heard. Richard Diaz is the director of voter registration.

"What I would like to see is people from all backgrounds, from all walks of life work together on issues. No matter if your Democrat or Republican, the fact that wages have not matched the rate of inflation for over 20 or 30 years that's an issue everybody can stand by," says Diaz.

Rap artist "Mudy" wrote a song about change. "It’s very essential that we stay active stay involved and stay informed, and also continue to pass down our knowledge so it doesn't stop here," she says.

A Harvard University study found that 63 percent of 18-23 olds say they are likely to vote in this election.

Perhaps in part because of campaigns like Wisconsin Conservation Voices, striking a chord with young people and inspiring them to action.

The project received funding from Northwestern Mutual. The Milwaukee Repertory Theatre and "Q the Sun" helped produce the videos.

Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip