Horror Campaign Aims to Boost Voter Turnout
By August Tales
Horror—a genre as versatile as it is terrifying—now takes a bold step into the political arena. Known for its deep explorations of fear and societal anxieties, the horror community has rallied behind a new initiative: Scare Up the Vote. This campaign seeks to mobilize voters for the upcoming election by weaving activism with eerie storytelling. Led by renowned horror author Tananarive Due, the initiative reflects the genre’s ability to turn societal dread into action.
Uniting the Horror Community for Political Change
“In scary times, people need to band together,” says Due, underscoring the importance of unity amid uncertainty. The campaign embodies this belief, gathering writers, filmmakers, and fans to bolster support for Democratic candidates Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. The horror genre’s preoccupation with monsters, chaos, and survival mirrors the high stakes of modern elections, making this crossover into activism feel like a natural fit.
The effort culminates in an online event on October 15th at 8 PM Eastern, aiming to inspire voter turnout and raise funds. The guest list includes heavyweights from both the literary and cinematic worlds, such as Stephen King, Joe Hill, Mike Flanagan, and Scott Derrickson. Actor David Dastmalchian will also join, bringing a unique mix of artistic talent and civic engagement to the virtual gathering.
The Intersection of Horror and Politics
“Horror and politics have always been linked,” Due points out, addressing the claim that horror should remain apolitical. Historically, political movements and censorship have targeted horror’s provocative themes. Literature like Daughters of Eve faced backlash for addressing controversial issues, while children’s books, such as Night of the Dummy, were accused of promoting satanic imagery. These challenges illustrate how horror has long served as a battleground for societal values and cultural anxieties.
The genre’s darker themes also extend to cinema. Films like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Night of the Living Dead stirred moral panic, while classics like Frankenstein and The Exorcist faced condemnation for perceived blasphemy. Horror reflects societal fears and moral boundaries, making it an inevitable participant in political discourse.
Using Horror as a Mirror for Social Reflection
“Horror acts as society’s mirror,” Due asserts, capturing the genre’s unique ability to reveal uncomfortable truths. The Scare Up the Vote initiative exemplifies this, urging people to confront the realities they fear most—whether political corruption or social upheaval. With each voter heading to the polls, they carry with them the lessons horror stories have long imparted: the importance of vigilance, unity, and action in the face of looming threats.
As horror enthusiasts channel their love for the genre into civic participation, they turn reflection into motivation. The campaign encourages voters not just to witness society’s challenges but to take steps toward meaningful change.
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