‘Fall into Hope’ voter fest unites Milwaukee’s faith communities for voter engagement ahead of critical elections – WisPolitics

Milwaukee, WI – With November elections approaching, Faith in Place, a local environmental nonprofit organization, will host their ‘Fall into Hope’ Voter Fest, a nonpartisan event promoting voter participation through faith-based outreach. Taking place on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Central United Methodist Church in Milwaukee, the event is expected to draw local leaders, families and activists to celebrate and encourage civic engagement.

The event comes at a crucial time, as the upcoming election holds significant stakes for communities like Milwaukee, where access to resources and voter education are essential. Voter Fest seeks to remove barriers by providing critical voter resources and education, ensuring that everyone is prepared to make informed choices at the polls. Faith communities play a key role, serving as trusted hubs for mobilizing voters and fostering civic engagement.

Faith in Place plans to provide Milwaukee residents with nonpartisan voter resources, voter registration assistance and education to help them make informed decisions in upcoming elections. Local leaders are expected to deliver remarks during a short press conference held from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., alongside other notable speakers, including:

• Samuel Liebert, Wisconsin State Director, All Voting is Local
• Maria Olsen, Green & Healthy Schools’ Green Student of the Year 2024
• Rhonda Linder, Education Director at Tikkun Ha-Ir and Statewide Interfaith Organizer for the Wisconsin Interfaith Voter Engagement Campaign (WIVEC)
• Alexander Malchow, Wisconsin Policy Coordinator, Faith in Place
• Tanya Crothers-Lewis, Wisconsin Outreach Coordinator, Faith in Place

An exciting highlight of the event will be a live, interactive art project led by a local Milwaukee artist. Attendees will have the opportunity to contribute to this communal piece, symbolizing the collective power of community voices and the transformative act of voting. This artistic initiative will be a powerful visual expression of hope and democratic engagement, designed to inspire attendees to take action at the polls.

“By participating in elections, we are taking crucial steps toward a democracy that truly serves the needs of all people,” said Alexander Malchow, Wisconsin policy coordinator with Faith in Place. “This event is an opportunity for communities to lift up their voices and advocate for policies that reflect equity and care for our neighbors.”

“Voter Fest is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together when we ensure every voice is heard. Voting is not just a right but a responsibility, and events like this build the momentum we need to protect that right for everyone. I’m honored to be a part of this movement and look forward to speaking alongside fellow advocates committed to fairness, inclusion and empowering communities through the power of the vote,” said Sam Liebert, Wisconsin state director for All Voting is Local.

Rhonda Linder, Education Director at Tikkun Ha-Ir, shared, “I’m here today living by my values, ‘pray with your feet, pray with your vote.’ I believe in the power of community and that we are indeed stronger together.”

Families are also encouraged to attend, with a range of activities for children, including large outdoor games, crafts and sidewalk chalk. The event will also feature interactive booths with voter guides, art activities, a selfie station with fall and voter-themed props, and refreshments such as donuts and cider.

As part of its ongoing efforts, Faith in Place is committed to mobilizing people of faith across Wisconsin to support policies that protect people, the planet and a healthy democracy. The organization believes that through voter registration, education and community involvement, communities can make a lasting impact at the polls—building a more just, equitable and sustainable future for all. 

While the festival is focused on engaging the Milwaukee community, it welcomes all who wish to participate. This free event is open to everyone, encouraging broader civic involvement and fostering a sense of unity across communities and faith traditions.

Participants can learn more and register by visiting: https://bit.ly/voter-fest-2024