Former first lady Michelle Obama wants people to vote. In fact, she’s encouraging students to vote by sharing her photo taken when she was still a student.
Now, everyone knows Michelle Obama wore a polka-dotted dress to her prom. “Throwing it back to my 1982 prom night and this pink satin, polka-dotted dress,” she tweeted on Tuesday, as reported by CNN.
It’s all part of a program to get students to vote. To sweeten the deal further, students might even get a price.
“Join the #PromChallenge with When We All Vote and MTV and tell us what your school is doing to register students to vote,” the former FLOTUS added. “You could get a free prom for your school!”
Michelle Obama co-chairs the non-profit When We All Vote, an organization that aims to increase participation in elections. They partnered with MTV’s +1thevote for the 2020 Prom Challenge.
The Prom Challenge aims to “celebrate and recognize 20 high schools across the country integrating voter registration into their schools in the most creative and impactful ways.” Winners can get up to $5,000 for their school’s prom.
Students who have fresh ideas on how to inspire their peers to vote can submit their applications and authorization forms until March 13. Participation is simple and can be completed in just three easy steps. Fist, download the forms. Then there’s a link for application should one go to the next level. The third step is to implement one’s ideas at school.
The idea is well received even among celebrities. One star who lends her support to the cause is “Scandal” actress Kerry Washington.
"It’s not Thursday but I’m throwin’ it back…to prom!” Washington posted. “Well, one of em. I went to a few???????? #PromChallenge (I ???? you @MichelleObama!)@WhenWeAllVote & @MTV are registering students to vote and they might just help YOU throw an unforgettable prom. Sign up???????? http://prom.mtv.com !”
TV host Tracee Ellis Ross is also a supporter. “18 yr old me in ‘90 ready for prom in this @armani dress, bangles & shoes,” the actress posted. “Prom was fun, but my 1st time voting was life-changing. If you're a student or teacher, join @WhenWeAllVote & @MTV’s #PromChallenge & u could win a free prom for your school!”