The Greater Cleveland Voter Registration Coalition met for the first time since the November 2004 elections

by Greater Cleveland Voter Coalition

The Greater Cleveland Voter Registration Coalition met for the first time since the November 2004 elections on Jan. 21, and voted unanimously and enthusiastically to continue the organization, under the new name Greater Cleveland Voter Coalition. The name change reflects a shift in focus from registration, education and voter mobilization to including election reform as a top priority.

According to a report from the Executive Committee, the November elections revealed many problems with the electoral system that cry out for reform. The Coalition’s goal is that every eligible voter can register and have their name entered successfully on the voter rolls, can vote and can feel certain that their vote was counted.

Reforms are needed at every level – federal, state and county. The coalition plans to network with other groups working on reform issues at all of these levels, to avoid duplication of effort and to maximize impact. Thirteen people at the meeting signed up to work on a committee on election reform.

The Coalition also agreed to continue work on voter registration, education and GOTV. The following committees are looking for volunteers: election reform; registration; education; media; resources (including clerical, technical, and financial); women; young adults/college and high school students/HipHop; and faith-based. Anyone wishing to volunteer and anyone with questions should call 216-391-0900, ext. 13 and ask for Judy Gallo.