Chicago Board of Elections Seeks South Asian Election Judges as Early Voting Begins

As the election season kicks off, the Chicago Board of Elections is urging members of the South Asian community to step up as election judges, particularly those who can speak Indian languages such as Hindi, Gujarati, and Urdu. With a growing South Asian population in Chicago, these judges will play a vital role in ensuring voters receive the support they need at polling stations.

According to Kimico Mehta, who leads South Asian Outreach for the Chicago Board of Elections, bilingual election judges are essential to help bridge communication gaps and assist voters in navigating the election process more easily. “We want to make sure that every voter in Chicago feels supported, and having judges who speak these languages will enhance that experience,” Mehta said.

Early Voting and Importance of Civic Duty

During the event, Marisel Hernandez, Chairwoman of the Chicago Board of Election Commissioners, highlighted the critical importance of exercising one’s civic duty by voting, particularly in this important election. “Voting is the foundation of our democracy, and early voting gives everyone the opportunity to participate conveniently and efficiently,” Hernandez stated. She also provided crucial information on early voting and mail-in voting options, emphasizing how these tools make it easier for all eligible voters to engage in the electoral process.

Hernandez encouraged voters not to wait until Election Day, stressing the value of early voting to avoid long lines and ensure that every vote is counted. “We are providing more flexibility and accessibility through early voting and mail-in ballots so that everyone has a chance to make their voice heard.”

Early Voting Overview

Early voting in Chicago began on Thursday, October 3rd, at 9:00 AM at the Voting Supersite (191 N. Clark St.) and the Board’s Offices (69 W. Washington St., 6th Floor). Starting on October 21st, all 50 wards will open their Early Voting locations, allowing any registered voter to cast their ballot at the site most convenient for them, including on Election Day.

Mehta also addressed the South Asian community, providing information about voting options in Hindi and Urdu to ensure accessibility for non-English speakers.

Voters can choose to vote in one of 12 languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Gujarati, and Urdu. All Early Voting locations are ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for voters with disabilities.

The next major event in the early voting process will take place on October 21st, when early voting expands to all wards across Chicago.

Call to Action

The Board of Elections members collectively stressed the importance of civic engagement, urging all eligible voters to make use of early voting options or mail-in ballots to avoid last-minute hurdles. “This election will shape the future of our city and country, and every vote matters,” Hernandez remarked.

Local U.S. media outlets and South Asian media representatives attended the announcement, with IndoUS Tribunerepresented by its Publisher, Dr. Avi Verma.

For more information on becoming an election judge or participating in early voting, contact the Chicago Board of Elections.