PeaceKeeper Program to Strengthen Election Protection at Polling Places
New initiative expands nonpartisan Election Protection efforts with trained community PeaceKeepers to prevent conflict and support voters during 2026 election cycle
The League of Women Voters of Chicago today announced the launch of its PeaceKeeper Program, a new Chicago-based election protection initiative designed to help preserve the right to vote for all eligible voters by supporting a safe, calm and welcoming environment at polling locations during the 2026 election cycle.
The PeaceKeeper Program is an expansion of LWV’s nonpartisan Election Protection effort (866-OUR-VOTE), which assists voters leading up to and on Election Day through in-person support and voter assistance hotlines staffed by trained legal volunteers. The program is launching amid heightened tension and uncertainty surrounding elections, including growing concerns about voter intimidation, polarization and misinformation and disinformation.
“In any election, you should be able to cast your ballot without confusion, harassment or fear,” said Jane Ruby, President of the League of Women Voters of Chicago. “The PeaceKeeper Program is our line in the sand and our hand on the shoulder, nonpartisan, trained, and ready to protect the voter experience so every eligible Chicagoan can vote freely and have that vote count.”
PeaceKeepers are trained volunteers who support conflict prevention and harm reduction at or around polling places. They are intended to be a steady, friendly presence at Chicago election sites who can communicate with voters, poll watchers and election workers, as well as serve as a buffer in moments of tension, helping de-escalate before situations spiral.
In response to the current political climate, LWV Chicago is expanding recruitment to individuals especially equipped for de-escalation and support, including faith leaders, social workers, counselors and interdisciplinary community leaders.
“Peacekeeping is not passive. It’s active protection of our neighbors’ dignity,” said Agnes Gray, LWV Chicago Voter Service Co-Chair and PeaceKeeper Program Coordinator. “We are recruiting people who know how to de-escalate, listen and lead with calm strength. Our message is clear: the polling place belongs to voters, not bullies, not chaos and not intimidation. If you come to vote, we’ve got your back.”
Learn more about becoming a PeaceKeeper for the 2026 midterm elections.