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Reviving Women's Vote: AAUW's Civic Engagement Campaign

As we approach the critical midterm elections of 2026, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has rolled out a revitalized initiative titled 'It's My Vote!' This campaign is particularly significant as it coincides with three pivotal anniversaries that have shaped women's rights in America: the enactment of Title IX on June 23, 1972, the landmark Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson on June 24, 2022, which revoked federal abortion rights, and the Shelby County v. Holder ruling from June 25, 2013, which undermined essential federal voting protections.

These anniversaries remind us of the ongoing challenges and vulnerabilities women face regarding their rights, both socially and politically. In this context, AAUW aims to equip women with necessary tools and knowledge to actively participate in the electoral process, thereby emphasizing the importance of women's voices in democracy.

The It's My Vote! Civic Engagement Guide

Central to this campaign is the newly released "It's My Vote! Civic Engagement Guide," a nonpartisan tool designed to help women navigate the political landscape effectively. This free resource covers ten critical topics, which include pay equity, education access, civil rights, and voting rights. Each topic is paired with essential questions that women can pose during candidate forums, town hall meetings, or community conversations, irrespective of political affiliation.

By facilitating informed dialogue at all levels of government—from local school boards to the federal Congress—AAUW encourages women to engage in values-driven discussions with candidates and elected officials. Gloria L. Blackwell, the CEO of AAUW, stated, "This week, we mark anniversaries that remind us exactly what is at stake for women in American democracy—in our schools, for our bodies, and at the ballot box. The It's My Vote! campaign is AAUW's answer to this moment—not telling anyone who to vote for, but ensuring every woman has the tools, the information, and the confidence to make her voice heard. When women vote, we change the conversation. AAUW is leading the charge."

A Legacy of Advocacy and Empowerment

For over 140 years, AAUW has championed education and equity for women and girls, striving to create a society where all women can reach their full potential. With more than 600 active branches across the nation, AAUW has a storied tradition of civic engagement, demonstrated through organizing candidate forums, advocating for voter registration, and fostering community involvement in the democratic process.

Recognizing the urgent need for increased voter participation, AAUW has joined forces with the League of Women Voters' Unite and Rise 8.5 initiative, aspiring to mobilize 8.5 million individuals to strengthen democracy ahead of the upcoming elections in November.

Additional Resources and Upcoming Events

To further support this initiative, AAUW provides additional resources, including the Civic Engagement Guide and opportunities for community members to participate in upcoming webinars, notably the one scheduled for July 8. Interested individuals can find these resources at aauw.org/ItsMyVote.

In conclusion, as we reflect on the historical context of women's rights in America, it becomes increasingly clear that engaging women voters in the electoral process is paramount. The AAUW's "It's My Vote!" campaign stands as a beacon of empowerment, fostering a spirit of participation and ensuring that women’s voices are not only heard but also celebrated in the halls of power.