
ABOVE PHOTO: Statue of 19th century civil rights activist Octavius V. Catto in front of Philadelphia City Hall. Editorial credit: Foolish Productions / Shutterstock.com
PHILADELPHIA– The Octavius V. Catto Voter Education Ministry will celebrate and honor the life and legacy of former St. Thomas lay leader, Octavius V. Catto, by encouraging Philadelphians to vote therefore empowering communities with resources in preparation for the Tuesday, November 7th General Election.
On Sunday, October 15, 2023, the voter education ministry will celebrate and host community educational events focused on the voting process and highlight Octavius’ legacy, exemplified daily by his statue on the southwest corner of City Hall. Our activities include: educating the congregation of St. Thomas and the community; updating voter registration information; and demonstrating how to fill out a mail-in/absentee ballot correctly.
According to WHYY, between 2014 and 2022, Pennsylvania saw a 19.5% increase in voter turnout among 18-29 year-olds. The Catto Ministry will also empower young voters with activities to encourage them to get out and vote.
Mayor Jim Kenney will make remarks to support local civic engagement. Pat Christmas of the Committee of Seventy will also be in attendance to support the activities and the importance of voting.
The African Episcopal Church of St.Thomas Octavius V. Catto service and celebration begin at 10 a.m. After-service events and activities will be held in Anderson Hall and Absalom Jones House, 6361 Lancaster Avenue, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
For more information, please visit, www.AECST.org or www.FaceBook.com/AECST1792.
About The AECST Octavius V. Catto Voter Education Ministry
Inspired by the life, legacy, and ministry of Octavius V. Catto, this is an initiative of the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas (AECST) to encourage voter registration and participation in our community.
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