The B1G is taking a big step in ensuring that student-athletes exercise their right to vote.

On Monday, the conference announced that it has formally launched the Voter Registration Initiative. This idea has been in the planning stages since February, according to a release from the B1G. However, with Election Day scheduled for Nov. 3 and the current climate across the country, it was important for the league to launch the new initiative.

“The Big Ten Conference Voter Registration Initiative is a natural extension of the conversation within the [Anti-Hate and Anti-Racism] Coalition,” commissioner Kevin Warren said in a statement. “An election year provides the opportunity to educate our student-athletes in a non-partisan fashion regarding the importance of exercising their civic right to clearly understand the political process, register to vote, cast a vote during the upcoming election, and provide adequate support to combat voter suppression. We are at an inflection point in our country. Empowering our student-athletes by encouraging them to use their voices illustrates how we can collectively work together to build a better future.”

Warren announced that the conference would be forming and Anti-Hate and Anti-Racism Coalition following the death of George Floyd. That announcement was made on June 1, 2020.

The Voter Registration Committee is made up of representatives from all 14 B1G institutions.