CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- A church group in Chicago said it’s “bringing inspiration, not intimidation" to the polls on this Election Day, and it’s doing it through positive reinforcement.
Pastor Hannah Kardon said members of the Urban Village Church congregation are excited about spreading some positivity among those who show up to vote by way of their effort to be “polling place cheerleaders.”
In coming up with the idea to show up at some polling places Tuesday to cheer on those in line, pastors and members of Urban Village Church said they were inspired by others.
"There's really a nationwide movement between poll chaplains in Georgia, and lawyers and collars...faith leaders wanting to show up and congratulate people on voting, but also protect people's right to vote," said Pastor Hannah Kardon.
She said nationwide church members and clergy are serving as precinct clergy, poll watchers, and voter advocates.
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Congregants from UVC’s five Chicago area sites will head to their nearest polling place locations throughout the day Tuesday to cheer on voters with signs and words of encouragement.
"I think they want to feel like they are supporting everyone's right to vote as well. And we have a lot of folks that want to support, but either are planning on being in line all day themselves or being election judges," she said. "We are also encouraging people to do this online: put a post on Facebook or Twitter, Instagram or Snapchat; send a text to a friend and say 'can I help you plan to vote? Have you voted? I am so proud of you, congratulations, good job."
Pastor Emily McGinley said church members who can’t be “poll cheerleaders” will send texts and do other things.
"I know that there are folks in the congregation who are also willing to give rides to folks, help them make a plan, do whatever it takes to help get the vote out," Pastor McGinley said.