Bridging Blocks | Voting: An American Right or Obligation?

Voting is a civil right. For many people, it's a civic duty. Elections give Philadelphians the power to choose who represents them and influence policies that affect their families and communities. 

On May 19th, Pennsylvanians will be voting in the primaries for Governor, a Congressperson, and local state lawmakers.

Over 69% of eligible voters in Pennsylvania voted in the 2024 federal election. In contrast, in Philadelphia’s primary election last year, only three districts had a voter participation rate of over 25%.

Why is voter apathy so widespread? Should we educate others that choose not to participate? Is there adequate civics education in our schools? Should the government play a role to raise awareness of the impact of voting?

Join WHYY News Community & Engagement team for Bridging Blocks, a civic dialogue series in partnership with The Free Library of Philadelphia.

Host - Tony Cuffie Senior Manager Community & Engagement, WHYY News

Moderator - Brisa Luzzi Castro Community Convener, WHYY News

Bridging Blocks, a partnership between The Free Library of Philadelphia and WHYY, is made possible by a generous grant from Fred and Barbara Sutherland