About Us
Our Mission
Vote16USA is the next big thing in our democracy, incubated by Generation Citizen. This national initiative is dedicated to lowering the voting age at the local level, launching new campaigns across the country, and raising the profile of this transformative movement nationwide.We oversee policy research, campaign strategy and support, communications, and strategic planning to robustly support the initiative to lower the voting age to 16 in local elections.
Our Mission
Expand voting rights to individuals aged 16 and above, giving them a voice in our democracy.
Our Vision
A future where young people are actively engaged in shaping the political landscape.
Our Background
The Vote16USA campaign was officially launched in December 2015, with the release of our white paper “Young Voices at the Ballot Box: Advancing Efforts to Lower the Voting Age.” This comprehensive report was written after extensive research and interviews with experts and stakeholders. Importantly, it included legal research to show which cities and states are primed to lower the voting age to 16. The paper has since been updated and the third edition was published in 2020. Now, guided by an Advisory Board and a Youth Advisory Board, we aim to help with the coordination of new and current local campaigns around the country while elevating the issue nationally through traditional and social media and by building partnerships with a broad group of stakeholders. This website serves as the central hub for these efforts as we move forward.
Empowering
Our Journey Towards Expanding Voting Rights
Launch of our Campaign
The Vote16USA campaign was officially launched in December 2015, with the release of our white paper “Young Voices at the Ballot Box: Advancing Efforts to Lower the Voting Age.”
Milestone Achievements
In 2020, Vote16USA successfully launched campaigns in multiple states, raising awareness and support. The paper has since been updated and the third edition was published in 2020.
Expanding Our Reach
Vote16USA continues to grow, with new chapters forming across the country.
Driving Change
Through grassroots efforts, Vote16USA is making progress towards achieving voting rights for 16-year-olds.
Empowering
Youth Advisory Board
Nilani Maheswaran
Nilani Maheswaran is a passionate advocate...
Vanessa Li
Vanessa Li is a Vietnamese-American high school student in the DMV...
Kyle Chen
Kyle Chen, sophomore of Eagan High School, MN, is a student passionate...
Yenjay Hu
Yenjay Hu is a New Jersey native and rising freshman at Yale University...
Anjali Krishnamurti
Anjali Krishnamurti is a sophomore undergraduate...
Amelia Rice
Carys Gill
Jessie Cai
David Zhu
Anya Khera
Empowering
National Advisory Board
Meet Our Team
Get to know the core members driving our mission.
LaJuan Allen
Director of Vote16USA
LaJuan’s Bio “LaJuan Allen began his career as the Community Relations Coordinator for Mayor Jorge O. Elorza in Providence, Rhode...
Faith Vieira
Outreach & Management Support Specialist
Faith Vieira is a dedicated advocate for social justice and equity, bringing over seven years of experience in fostering civic engagement and building vibrant communities with youth. A summa cum laude graduate of Long Island University, she holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration, which has shaped her passion for community empowerment and advocacy. Faith is driven by a firm belief in the transformative potential of youth voices, and she works tirelessly to amplify their influence in shaping a more equitable and inclusive society. Her commitment lies in leading impactful initiatives that challenge systemic inequalities, with a special focus on uplifting marginalized communities. Guided by a vision for sustainable change, Faith seeks to inspire others to take proactive steps toward building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Vote16USA: Making a Difference in the Future of Democracy
We are proud to have garnered notable endorsements and partnerships, solidifying our commitment to empowering young voices in the political landscape.
Join the movement for change
Discover how you can make a difference and support the Vote16USA initiative.
