Chicago and Cook County Join Forces to Protect Voting Rights With One-Stop Records Event

Registering to vote in Illinois is a straightforward process when you have the right documents on hand. But not everyone has those documents, and new federal legislation could make things even harder. This weekend, the City of Chicago and Cook County are stepping up to remove those barriers by offering vital records and voter registration in a single visit.

The event comes at a time when the Trump administration and its allies are pushing for the SAVE America Act, formally known as the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act. The bill would require Americans to show proof of citizenship in person to register for federal elections and would implement photo ID requirements for voting. While supporters say the goal is to prevent noncitizens from casting ballots, experts warn the legislation could disenfranchise millions of Americans who lack passports, birth certificates, or who have changed their names.

The U.S. House has passed versions of the legislation, but it has stalled in the Senate, where a 60-vote threshold makes passing partisan bills a steep climb. Still, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson says the threat to voting rights is real and immediate.

“We can't take it for granted that this administration won't do everything in its power to suppress voters, and the partnership with the county and Clerk Gordon, this opportunity for individuals to be able to access birth certificates — it's absolutely critical,” Mayor Johnson said on CBS News Chicago Thursday morning. “We do not want barriers that make it harder for individuals to vote.”

What to Expect at the Event

On Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the public can visit Manning Public Library at 6 S. Hoyne Ave. on the Near West Side for free or low-cost access to birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other vital records. Additional copies of those records can be purchased for $4 each.

Residents can also register to vote or update their existing registration on-site, according to Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon.

“Government is about accessibility, and we want to make things accessible for the residents — whether it's obtaining your vital records like your birth certificate, or register to vote, we're bringing it to the community,” Gordon said.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Attendees should bring a state-issued driver's license or ID, or a U.S. passport. Those without a primary form of identification may present two secondary forms, such as a bill statement, bank statement, or Social Security card. Pre-registration is required.

Gordon also recommends that residents visit the county website to request a birth record request form ahead of time to streamline the process.

Why This Matters Now

Mayor Johnson addressed the anxiety many residents may feel about participating in voter registration amid the current political climate.

“Well listen, this is why we're doing it. We understand the fear and consternation and anxiety that because the Trump administration, of course, is working overtime to create terror,” the mayor said. “But Chicago and Cook County is a safe haven, and we're going to protect the people's right to be able to vote. Prior to the 24th Amendment, you know, the federal government required a poll tax. So as Mark Twain said, history doesn't repeat itself, but it certainly rhymes.”

Johnson noted that about 10% of Americans lack the certifications or information needed to vote, and that number is even higher for Black Americans.

“We want to make sure that this administration does not suppress our votes, and that the people of Chicago and Cook County will be franchised,” said the mayor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can attend the vital records and voter registration event?

Any resident of Chicago or Cook County who needs help obtaining vital records or registering to vote can attend. Pre-registration is required.

What identification do I need to bring?

Bring a state-issued driver's license or ID, or a U.S. passport. If you don't have one of those, you can bring two secondary forms of ID, such as a utility bill, bank statement, or Social Security card.

Is there a cost for vital records at the event?

Access to birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other vital records is free or low-cost. Additional copies are available for $4 each.

Why is this event happening now?

The event is a proactive response to proposed federal legislation, the SAVE America Act, which could impose new voter ID requirements and make it harder for millions of Americans to register to vote.