Two local women boost voter turnout nationwide with DJs at the Polls

As the sun rose over the Bay Area on a crisp November morning, the familiar sounds of music began to fill the air outside polling places across the region. In Berkeley, DJ Trecee Artis was setting up her turntables, ready to create an inviting atmosphere for voters. This scene, replicated in cities nationwide, is part of an innovative initiative called DJs at the Polls, which aims to transform the voting experience into a festive occasion. This year, thanks to the efforts of local women like Julia Chang Frank, the initiative has expanded to include approximately 2,000 DJs playing at 4,500 polling sites across 24 states.

What Happened

Founded in South Philadelphia by Anton Moore in 2009, DJs at the Polls began as a grassroots effort to encourage voter participation through music. The concept was simple: hire local DJs to play music outside polling locations, creating a celebratory atmosphere that would encourage people to vote. In 2022, Julia Chang Frank, a resident of Albany, partnered with Moore to test the program's impact on voter turnout. The results were promising, showing a significant increase in participation, particularly among BIPOC voters.

“Voting should feel like a celebration,” said Chang Frank, who now serves as co-director of the initiative. “We want every voter who walks past a DJ at the Polls set to feel welcome no matter who they vote for.” This sentiment resonates deeply in communities that have historically faced barriers to voting.

This November 3, DJs will be stationed at select vote centers and ballot drop boxes in competitive districts across California, including Merced and Bakersfield. The initiative’s goal is to create an engaging experience that fosters community interaction while reinforcing the importance of civic participation.

Community Impact

The impact of DJs at the Polls extends beyond mere entertainment; it serves as a vital tool for increasing voter turnout. In a randomized controlled trial conducted during the 2022 elections, polling sites featuring DJs saw an increase in turnout among BIPOC voters by as much as 3%. This statistic is particularly significant in light of ongoing discussions about voter suppression and the need for greater representation in the electoral process.

Engaging the Next Generation

For many young voters and first-time participants, the presence of DJs can make the voting experience less intimidating. DJ Juice, who also performed in Berkeley during the California special election, expressed the joy of bringing music into neighborhoods. “Whether I’m performing for thousands of fans or playing music at a neighborhood ballot drop box, my mission remains the same: bring people together through music and leave them with a smile,” he said.

This approach not only fosters a sense of community but also encourages dialogue among voters. As DJ Trecee Artis noted, her presence at the polls last year led to increased engagement, with voters asking questions and discussing the voting process. “Voters were asking questions, engaging with the experience, and feeling a renewed sense of urgency around voting,” Artis shared.

Behind the Scenes: Logistics and Technology

Executing an initiative of this scale requires meticulous planning and coordination. Julia Chang Frank emphasized the logistical challenges involved: “Getting thousands of DJs to the right place at the right time on a single day with everything they need is a logistics puzzle with no second chances.” Each DJ must be recruited, matched to a polling site, trained, and equipped with the necessary gear.

To streamline this process, CloudBase Services, a Berkeley-based software firm, has developed a technology platform that supports the initiative's operations. The app allows organizers to manage everything from recruitment to payment, ensuring a smooth experience for both DJs and voters.

“CloudBase is vital to our operations; they enabled us to scale exponentially from a small local program at 50 polls to over 6,000 polling sites nationwide in a few months,” Chang Frank explained. This technological backbone is crucial for ensuring that the initiative can meet its ambitious goals.

Support and Sponsorship

The success of DJs at the Polls is not solely attributed to the DJs themselves but also to the support of local businesses and community organizations. CloudBase Services, led by CEO Debbie Taylor, has been instrumental in providing the technical expertise necessary for the initiative's growth. “Designing and creating apps that increase voter turnout is a joy,” Taylor remarked. “Creating simple custom apps to solve complex real-world challenges is what we do best.”

Community members are encouraged to support this initiative, whether by volunteering or simply by showing up to vote. The next general election is set for November 3, and residents can check their registration status at registertovote.ca.gov.

The People Behind the Music

The DJs themselves are an integral part of this initiative, each bringing their unique style and community connection to the polling places. For many of these local artists, the opportunity to play at the polls represents more than just a gig; it’s a chance to engage with their community in a meaningful way. DJ Trecee Artis, for example, has been a fixture in the East Bay music scene for years, known for her ability to blend genres and create an inclusive atmosphere. She sees her role as a bridge between the music and the civic engagement process.

“I want people to feel excited about voting,” Artis stated. “It’s not just about casting a ballot; it’s about participating in something bigger than yourself.” Her perspective is shared by many of the DJs involved, who view their performances as a form of activism, using their art to inspire change.

Looking Ahead: A Call to Action

As the 2024 federal election approaches, the stakes are higher than ever. With more than 3,000 DJs already slated to perform at nearly 6,000 polling sites across 11 states, the potential for increased voter turnout is significant. Chang Frank and her team are committed to ensuring that every voter feels welcome and excited to participate in the electoral process.

“We want to reach communities that have been historically underrepresented,” Chang Frank stated. “By making the voting experience enjoyable, we hope to inspire a new generation of voters.” The initiative's focus on inclusivity is crucial, particularly in areas where voter turnout has lagged due to systemic barriers.

For those interested in learning more about the initiative or getting involved, further details can be found on the DJs at the Polls website. Together, we can create a more vibrant and engaged electorate, one beat at a time.