How CEM is recognizing the 2020 election

With the 2020 national election nearing, leaders at Chicago Event Management recognize the unique challenges voters may face during this year’s election cycle.  As a result, CEM is now observing November 3, and all future national elections, as an official company-paid holiday.   

“This decision was made as a part of our larger Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives,” CEM Human Resources Director Dianna Parkman shared with the CEM staff. “We recognize the importance of casting your vote and the challenges you may face in finding the time and opportunity to do so during the workday.”  

In addition to voting, CEM staff members are encouraged to volunteer at polling stations and make a voting pledge at electionday.org.  

How to get involved in the local election  

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the United States has been facing a national shortage of people signing up to be Election Judges; typically, older residents serve these roles, but as they are at higher-risk to contract COVID-19, Chicago is looking for younger residents to help out. Election Judges assist voters with registration and other questions about the voting process. Learn more about working as an Election Judge here.  

Volunteer roles are also available on election day. Find out how to get involved through the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.  

Additional resources for voting in Illinois on November 3, 2020

• Illinois: Election Tools, Deadlines, Dates, Rules, and Links: vote.org/state/illinois/ 
• City of Chicago Welcome, Voters details: Website: chicagoelections.gov/en/vote-by-mail.html  
• Deadline: You may use this system to apply for a Vote By Mail ballot through 5 p.m. on Thurs., Oct. 29, 2020. 
• Early application incentive: Chicago voters who apply online between now and Sept. 24 will be among the first to receive ballots. Ballot mailings will begin Sept. 24-Oct. 5. 
• Ballot Mail-In Deadline (Mail-In & Drop off options): Vote By Mail Ballot Return Envelopes may be completed and submitted at a Secured Dropbox at any Early Voting site or the Election Board no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 3, 2020. If mailed, the Ballot Return Envelope must be postmarked before or on Election Day, Nov. 3, 2020.