Share this post
Why Your Vote Matters: Key Dates for the 2026 General Election
At CASL, we see every day how policy decisions — on immigration, workforce development, health care, and older adult services — shape the lives of the people we serve. Elections determine who makes those decisions.
Civic Engagement & Advocacy
Voting is one of the most direct ways our community can be heard. At CASL, we see every day how policy decisions — on immigration, workforce development, health care, and older adult services — shape the lives of the people we serve. Elections determine who makes those decisions.
“Voting helps amplify the voices of our community members. Disenfranchised communities, including AANHPIs, have historically been left out of many policy decisions. It’s essential to vote for elected officials who can best advocate for our unique needs.” — Viana, CASL Grant Writer
Why CASL Advocates for Voting
- To make sure our community’s needs — across education, immigration policy, workforce development, health, and older adult services — are represented by the people making policy decisions
- To protect funding for CASL programs at the city, state, and federal level
Key Dates to Know
- Thursday, Oct. 1: Early voting starts at the downtown Chicago supersite (137 S. State St.) and at the Chicago Board of Elections office (69 W. Washington St., 6th floor).
- Tuesday, October 6 — Last day for paper registration. Online voter registration remains open.
- Wednesday, October 7 — First day of the grace period for in-person voter registration and select early voting sites (varies by election authority)
- Tuesday, October 18 — Last day for online voter registration, 11:59 PM. Grace period in-person registration remains available at select early voting sites.
- Thursday, October 29 — Last day to apply for a vote by mail ballot
- Tuesday, November 3 — Election Day! Polls open 6 AM – 7 PM
Mark your calendar, and encourage friends and family to do the same. Every vote is a chance to make sure our community’s voice is part of the decisions that affect us.
