Image of a flash mob rehearsal by UPO – Universidad Pablo de Olavide on Flickr
Voter drive campaign plans flash mob
By Dylan Hackett, News Editor
The Canadian Federation of Student’s (CFS) Rock the Vote BC campaign is planning one last hoorah to mobilize student voters with a flash mob poised to take place on May 10, four days before the polling booths open up. The flash mobbers are looking for as many participants as possible to increase buzz for the event in the hopes of creating a social media splash.
“The main goal is to draw attention to the importance of voting in a fun way. We want voting to be a group activity because the result of political action benefits communities,” explained CFS BC chairperson Katie Marocchi.
Two rehearsals for the flash mob have already taken place. Attendees of the flash mob are privy to the secret location of the event.
“Rehearsals have been well-received and a lot of interest has been shown in the project by multiple groups in the community. We have another rehearsal coming up on Wednesday, May 8th at 8 p.m. under Robson Square,” said Marocchi.
“I feel like this is a great opportunity for Douglas students to meet new people and have a great time, all while learning the importance of voting. The event will be recorded and the video will be a great reminder that Douglas Students care about the future of our province,” said Jenelle Davies, outgoing women’s liaison for the Douglas Student’s Union.
The secret location is set to be revealed on Friday morning and interested participants are encouraged to come out to the spot for 3 p.m.
The Rock the Vote campaign has been active at Douglas since the fall semester, registering hundreds of students to vote in the upcoming provincial election. Rock the Vote’s main aim is to encourage youth voter turnout. The under-34 voter demographic has the lowest turnout rate, with over 500,000 eligible voters refraining from the polls.
Advance polls are open through May 8-11 in select stations throughout BC ridings. To find your riding polling stations, visit http://www.elections.bc.ca/index.php/maps/electoral-district-finder/.
