Democracy Spotlight: Martese Chism, Chicago Activist
Democracy Spotlight: Martese Chism, Chicago Activist
50 years ago, Martin Luther King and other activists gathered in Selma, Alabama and fought for the right to vote. After 50 years, despite the risks and sacrifices from communities across the country, these rights are still under threat. That is why Common Cause has been fighting so hard for recent voting rights and election reforms. In honor of Martin Luther King Day, we want to introduce you to Martese Chism, one of our 2016 Champions of Democracy.
Join us at the 2016 Champions of Democracy Celebration!
Martese comes from four generations of activists who have given their lives fighting for voting rights. After the murder of her great grandparents, she made a vow to live a life of service and social justice in honor of those who lost their lives. With more than 23 years serving thousands of low-income patients right here in Chicago, Chism is one of the most active members of National Nurses United. She works with The Reclaim Campaign to lead voter registration drives and Fair Election events and is an inspiring leader.
Martese is a powerful leader and we are proud to work with her and The Reclaim Campaign in our efforts to defend and expand the rights that so many communities have fought and died for. I can’t wait to present her with the Champion of Democracy award!
Thank you,
Brian Gladstein, Executive Director
And the rest of the team at Common Cause IL
P.S. Can’t make it to the Celebration? Donate in honor of Martese, and we’ll invite a student activist to attend on your behalf!
See More: Voting & Elections