Hoping to inspire young people to get more involved in democracy, the NAACP in Oakland is working to turn students into first-time voters. The Oakland NAACP branch is teaming up with the Alameda County Registrar of Voters to bring voter registration directly to students. It’s all part of Califo rnia’s High School Voter Education Weeks, designed to engage students in the political process early. “We need to educate them how it’s so important to vote,” Oakland NAACP President Cynthia Adams said. “Your vote counts. No matter what people tell you – ‘Oh, your vote do not count’ – your vote counts.” According to U.S. Census data, voters 18 to 29 have the lowest election turnout rates despite their ability to influence close elections. Organizers said change starts with education and understanding the history of voting rights, especially for people of color. “A lot of my relatives was not able to vote until they got a certain age,” Adams said. “Now is the time to educate our young people so they can get out and vote at an early age and tell their friends and their families.” The Oakland NAACP plans to visit more schools through November with a goal of making sure young voices are heard. NBC Bay Area’s Velena Jones has more in the video report above. ...read more read less