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Barack Obama Green Charter High School

Excellence is Standard

BOGCS Unites the Community through Voter Registration & Civic Dialogue

Posted Date: 5/15/25 (6:44 PM)

Building Informed Communities
"Your Vote, Your Voice": BOGCS Students Lead Inspiring
Voter Registration Drive
On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, BOGCS proudly hosted, “Your Vote, Your Voice”— a student-led voter registration drive celebrating civic engagement and community empowerment. From 3:30 to 5:30 PM, student-hosts welcomed guests, inviting them to register to vote, enjoy refreshments, and explore community resources. “This is how change starts".
Community Resource Stations provided vital information on youth programs, mental health support, and city services.
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 Jazz Clayton-Hunt, Head of Communications for the City of Plainfield, encouraged families to take advantage of Community Pass, noting, “Parks and recreation offer over 57 programs for our city’s residents.”

Superintendent Erin Murphy-Richardson highlighted the deeper purpose of the event: “The goal was to create a space that embodied the very heart of our mission: to prepare global citizens who understand the importance of lifting up their communities.”

Interactive discussions followed, with peer leaders posing thoughtful questions about local issues to community leaders, sparking meaningful dialogue. Assemblywoman Linda Carter emphasized, “Registering to vote empowers the youth to hold elected officials accountable.”

Special guests, including Councilwoman Terri Briggs-Jones and Councilman Richard Wyatt, underscored the importance of informed voting. “Your vote is your voice,” reminded Briggs-Jones. Wyatt urged students to do their research  and stay engaged.

The event also featured creative wellness activities, including a paint-a-canvas mindfulness table, a planting booth, a friendship bracelet station, and live student performances. Local business Urbanish Treats provided refreshments, rounding out the afternoon with moments of fun, reflection, and community connection.

“We didn’t just hold an event. We created a movement of informed, empowered voters dedicated to ensuring their city thrives,” said Superintendent Murphy-Richardson.

The success of “Your Vote, Your Voice” is a testament to the strength of youth leadership in Plainfield—proving that every voice matters and every vote makes a difference.

We extend our sincere thanks to our community partners: The Boys and Girls Club, NJ, NJ4S Prevention Links: Supporting Union County, Urbanish Treats, and the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Community Prosecution Division for your steadfast support.

Special thanks to our distinguished guests: Jazz Clayton-Hunt, Councilwoman Terri Briggs-Jones, Councilman Richard Wyatt, and Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter for sharing your wisdom and encouragement.

Finally, a heartfelt recognition to Dr. Yasmin Griffin, Director of Curriculum, and our phenomenal Peer Leaders for guiding this initiative with heart and purpose.

We invite you to read and share the attached press release
 

We're proud to be highlighted in TAPinto Plainfield . For the latest news at Barack Obama Green Charter Schools, check out our column on TAPinto Plainfield!