Social Justice for Us, a non-profit organization operating out of Marquette, is hosting a voter registration rally this Friday, Oct. 9. 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 148 W Washington St. Suite F. The event aims to register eligible voters to vote and raise awareness on a local level about the upcoming election.

The event is partnered with SmoothUPArt, a local art gallery in Marquette. The event will also feature free pizza, provided by Little Ceasars, as well as handouts from more local businesses. Of course, keep in mind that COVID-19 social distancing and other safety measures will be in place.

Social Justice for Us gives a sense of community inclusivity to Black, Indigenous and other races, as well as those who identify as LGBTQ+. Marquette is less racially diverse than many larger cities in downstate Michigan. Social Justice for Us lifts the voices of these people in Marquette and reminds them that their voices matter.

Participants should bring their government-issued ID, as well as their social security number to register as a Michigan voter.

Social Justice for Us began over the summer, as a group supporting the larger Black Lives Matter movement in America. Fred Sims, one of the group’s founders and an NMU student, helped the group mass a large presence in Marquette. Social Justice for Us has held peaceful BLM demonstrations, an educational series “on tap” at Superior Culture and the Safe Space Pledge.

Finally, the group continues to ask local businesses for their support of the group by taking the Safe Space Pledge and being officially recognized on the groups’ Facebook page as an ally.