Greetings:
Welcome to South Side Drive Magazine’s Special Election Issue. This year’s
midterm elections will shape our country, our democracy and our lives for years to
come. These are among the most consequential elections of our lifetimes.

Election Day is November 3, but don’t wait until then to vote. Murphy’s Law
reminds us that whatever can go wrong may go wrong: traffic delays, long lines or
equipment problems. Early voting has begun in Illinois. Make your plan today.

If you encounter problems, call or text 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683). If your
name is missing from the voter list, ask an election judge about same-day
registration and call the hotline before leaving without voting. Illinois allows
registration and voting during the same visit at designated locations. Bring two
forms of identification to register, including one showing your current address.

Local races also deserve your attention. Chicago voters will choose the city’s first
fully elected Board of Education, taking office in January 2027. Find background
on school board candidates and Cook County judicial elections and retention races
at www.southsidedrivemag.com.

Thank you to young writers Kayla Hodge and Jaelyn Logan for bringing fresh
insights and perspectives to this issue, and to Floyd Webb for his informative
opening article, “The Chilling of the Vote and How to Heat It Up.” Their
contributions remind us that civic engagement grows stronger when generations
share their knowledge, questions and hopes.

We also spotlight organizations educating voters, helping them register and getting
them to the polls. Chicago Votes, led by Stevie Valles, has focused on engaging
people ages 18–35. Our interview explores his perspective and the organization’s
work to strengthen participation across Chicago and Illinois.

Nineteen-year-old college student and youth organizer Franklin Hughes is
empowering young people through civic education and engagement. Alongside
work with Chicago Votes, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and others, he serves with
Mayor Brandon Johnson’s youth committee, helping young Chicagoans connect
with employment opportunities.

We applaud the growing number of organizations advancing voter education,
registration and turnout. This issue highlights the Mayor Harold Washington
Legacy Committee and KnowYourPowerVOTE. Thomas Wortham III, chair of the
committee’s voter registration efforts, and Devorah Crable, founder and producer
of KYPVOTE, are acknowledged for their work which has helped register
hundreds of Chicago voters.

International Men’s Day follows on November 19. For more than 15 years, Real
Men Charities has anchored local observances, bringing audiences together around
its principles. Inside, we recognize eight organizations putting those principles into
practice every day. Please read about their contributions and join us for this year’s
gathering at TheQuarry.

Finally, join us in thanking the MacArthur Foundation and the Field Foundation of
Illinois. Their support has helped South Side Drive Magazine amplify  voices,
connect generations and remain a valuable Chicago publishing presence in print
and online.

Our pages reflect the people and organizations working every day to strengthen our
communities. We invite you to read, share and support this work—and to
encourage someone in your circle to participate in this election.
Visit www.southsidedrivemag.com and follow us on social media. #southsidedrive
Vote early—but above all, VOTE. We’ll see you at the polls.

With Gratitude and Pride,

Yvette Moyo

Editor in Chief