16 and 17-year-olds live, work, drive, and pay taxes across Chicago. But on election day, we are locked out of the voting process, unable to vote on issues that directly impact us as citizens and taxpayers.

Crucial decisions about our public education, police accountability reform, crime reduction, and gentrification are being made without younger Chicago citizens that are dedicated to helping to change their city. Young people deserve to have their voices heard in local government.

Young people should be encouraged to take part in their communities. Research shows that allowing us to vote in local and state elections can improve long-term voter turnout and promote civic education, and that 16- and 17-year-olds are absolutely capable of making informed decisions at the polls. Check out our research on our website here.

Sign our petition to support lower the voting age to 16 for Chicago elections.