Stand Up for Science sets virtual get-out-the-vote rally with Abrams and Lewis

Stand Up for Science will host a free virtual and accessible get-out-the-vote rally on Saturday, Oct. 17, as early voting is already underway in many states and Election Day nears. The event will feature Stacey Abrams, Michael Lewis and other speakers, with live Spanish and ASL interpretation plus multi-language captions.

Why it matters: - The rally is aimed at voters who face barriers tied to disability, caregiving, work schedules, transportation, distance or living abroad. - Stand Up for Science is framing access as central to participation in voting, science and civic life. - The event comes 17 days before Election Day, with early in-person voting already underway in many states.

What happened: - Stand Up for Science will host the Official No Kings Virtual & Accessible Get Out the Vote Rally on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at 12 p.m. Eastern. - The event is free, online and open to participants regardless of ability, language, status or location. - The rally is part of the nationwide No Kings day of action. - The speaker lineup includes Stacey Abrams, Michael Lewis, Simon Rosenberg, U.S. Rep. Adelita Grijalva of Arizona's 7th District, Martha McDevitt-Pugh, Theo W. Braddy, Rhoda Gibson Malden and Colette Delawalla.

The details: - Live Spanish and American Sign Language interpretation will be available. - Closed captioning and multi-language automatic captioning will also be offered. - The speaking program will focus on access to care, science, voting and full civic participation. - After the speeches, the event will move into breakout sessions and get-out-the-vote action. - One breakout session will connect Americans voting abroad with resources and direct technical assistance. - Members of the press are invited to attend. - Registration is available through the event link in the announcement.

Between the lines: - The rally is designed as both an access event and a turnout tool, combining accommodation services with civic organizing. - The emphasis on language access and voting abroad suggests an effort to reach audiences often left out of traditional political events. - The lineup blends political figures, authors and disability rights advocates, signaling a broader coalition around voting access.

What's next: - The rally is set for Oct. 17, just ahead of the Nov. 3 Election Day. - Stand Up for Science says Colette Delawalla is available for comment and media appearances. - The breakout sessions are expected to push participants toward voting plans and direct action after the main program. - The broader No Kings day of action will continue alongside the rally’s turnout push.