By Erica Johnson
Vice president, Voter Services, League of Women Voters of Wellesley

From left: Helen Stewart, Virginia Ferko, Erry Johnson, Marjorie Freiman, Melissa Martin, Ellen Hallett

Over 100 Wellesley High students came out to register to vote on Jan. 23 during the League of Women Voters of Wellesley’s Voter Registration event at the Wellesley High School. Sixty-six completed paper registration forms and are all set to vote in the town election on March 6 and all state elections going forward. An additional 42 picked up online voter registration instructions or a mail-in version of the form.

The first question on the registration form asks, “Are you a citizen of the United States of America?” Some students, who stated they were not U.S. citizens, accompanied their friends who were registering. Students were enthusiastic in anticipating their first opportunity to vote, acknowledging voting as both a right and responsibility of citizenship. One said:,“I’ve known about this all my life, and finally I get to do it!”

It is inspiring to witness the next generation engaged in the democratic process. I hope their example will lead others to the polls on Tuesday, March 6, when both contested and uncontested offices will be decided.

The full slate of candidates for both town-wide offices and Town Meeting can be found on the town clerk’s website

Important dates:

• Feb. 14: Last day to register to vote in local March 6 election

• Aug. 15: Last day to register to vote in the state primary election on Sept. 4.

• Oct. 18: Last day to register to vote in the state general election on Nov. 6.

Congratulations to Wellesley’s newest voters, from the League of Women Voters of Wellesley