October Event Series: Who Votes in 2026 and Why?

Join the National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House and the Susan B. Anthony Institute for Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies this October for a four-part series exploring the history, meaning, and practice of voting.

Through conversations with local election officials, University of Rochester faculty, community partners, and students, we’ll consider why voting matters, who has historically been able to participate, what barriers remain, and how we can understand our own political perspectives.

Friday, October 2 - Is voting worth it?
National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House - Carriage House
Anthony Museum, 17 Madison Street, Rochester, New York
6:00 PM-7:30 PM with optional 5:00 PM tour of the House

What does voting mean, and what values have shaped who gets to participate in American democracy? Join representatives from the Monroe County Board of Elections, University of Rochester faculty, and the Anthony Museum for a conversation about the history of voting and the ideas and values behind civic participation. We will have food and anticipate lively discussion!

If you would like to attend and take a tour of the house, we are offering a free 5:00 PM tour for guests. Please indicate your interest on the registration form. We are prioritizing student attendance so are asking for those interested to complete the form at the link below by September 29. We will confirm your place by September 30.

Register here by September 29

Thursday, October 8 - A Short History of Voting and Voter Suppression in the United States
Virtual - 6:30 PM

What does voter suppression look like, and how have laws, policies, and political practices shaped access to the ballot? This virtual conversation will examine the history and contemporary realities of voter suppression and its implications for democratic participation.

Register here

Friday, October 16 - Register to vote table at the UR
University of Rochester - Wilson Commons Porch
12:30-3:30 PM

Stop by our table to register to vote, learn about voting resources, and connect with others about civic participation. Students can also take time to complete a questionnaire designed to help explore and better understand their own political leanings, values, and ideas. We will have snacks!

No registration required.

Friday, October 30 - Election Day: Honoring Susan B. Anthony
Mount Hope Cemetery - Susan B. Anthony Gravesite
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM

After voting early (The Anthony Museum is a nearby site for early voting!) students who have voted are invited to gather at Susan B. Anthony’s grave at Mount Hope Cemetery for a group photo commemorating the opportunity to participate in the democratic process and honoring Anthony’s lifelong work for women’s suffrage.