The air buzzed with energy as community members gathered, but it was the special moment between two volunteers and a young boy that showed the true power of the day. During the annual Solano Stroll, in between Berkeley and Albany, thousands of people gathered to observe and engage with local businesses, teams and organizations along the sidewalks.

The League of Women Voters Berkeley, Albany, Emeryville (LWVBAE) was stationed just above the BART rails eager to talk to passersby. Running the booth were interns from the Helen Lecar Civic Engagement Program and a variety of amazing League leaders and volunteers. With National Voter Registration Day fast approaching, LWVBAE knew the Stroll was an amazing opportunity to help residents of the Bay get organized for upcoming statewide votes.

The overall feeling of the Stroll was welcoming and joyous. Berkeley Mayor Adena Ishii with her husband, Andrew Kitirattragarn, and their two dogs; Andy Katz, Ward 4 of EBMUD; and Nikki Fortunato Bas, the Alameda County Supervisor for District 5 all stopped by to say hello. Bas walked up with enthusiasm, greeting the League members as an old friend, “I love to see the League in our community, keep up the good work!” Many Stroll explorers came to the booth inquisitively and left with a flyer and new found interest in the League, many mentioning that they look to the League before voting for information they were curious about. One particular explorer stood out from the crowd. A boy, only about 11 years old, walked shyly over to the table and asked, “How can I register to vote?” Interns Lucy Still and Clio Wachtel quickly jumped into action, commending his proactiveness and explaining the Berkeley Vote16 initiative. They said 16 and 17-year-olds living in Berkeley can vote in school board elections, and handed him a paper affidavit.

Overall, the event was a huge success! With newfound interest from the youngest to oldest Stroller, the League was successful in reaching the Bay community and continuing its mission to promote voter registration and turnout.

–Clio Wachtel