With an initial $3 million investment, the State of Arizona joins the NextGen initiative this year to foster the youth vote and give voice to marginalized identities in progressive movements.

“NextGen is one of the largest movements in history targeting youth voters from 18-35,” said Regional Organizer Richard Gallon.

NextGen is part of the youth organizing movement and aims to encourage young people to actively enroll in the elections and make their voices heard on issues of their interest.

Billionaire Tom Steyer sponsors the initiative to keep the first and ninth congressional districts under democratic control. Organizers are committed to replacing Gov. Doug Ducey with someone who they say is committed to causes that work for the interest of the people of Arizona and NextGen.

According to organizers, young voters today consider causes that serve their communities first, like immigration, healthcare and education funding, rather than casting their votes based on individuals.

Organizers are reaching out to young voters not only to educate them about the voting and registration process, but also to learn their views on causes of interest. In addition, organizers are visiting voters where they are, either schools, colleges, movie theaters, etc., to reach out to the largest community possible.

As of July 9, the youth vote program shows 7,793 registered voters and 6,242 supporters signed up, with 306 active volunteers working with the youth in the field.

Local organizers met today for the office opening in Tucson. The inauguration event celebrated art and how it represents social justice cases, to allow young voters to realize the connections between voting and what they are fighting for. Read more about NextGen here.