In the lead up to the 2019 General Election Operation Black Vote (OBV) has released a campaign that uses real quotes from politicians to urgently encourage Britain's disenfranchised youth, particularly Black and Minority Ethnic youth to register to vote. The campaign’s central message is that if BAME communities, and young people in general do not register to vote, others with often controversial views, will speak for them. 

 

The campaign focuses on the importance of voting on 12th December and will show a series of billboards up and down the UK showing famous people with an ‘X’ over their mouths, highlighting the importance of having their voice heard. An online film also highlights some of the controversial words uttered by politicians, with quotes containing controversial views and statements from politicians which insensitively address issues of race, religion, women, sexuality and climate change. These quotes are brought to life by actors in real life environments such as bars and restaurants, with the film capturing the stunned reactions of their friends. Actors include Nathalie Emmanuel (Game of Thrones, Fast & Furious), Nadia Rose (British hip-hop artist), Ash Sarkar (Journalist, Political activist), Jermain Jackman (Singer - The Voice UK) and Will Poulter (The Revenant, Detroit, Black Mirror, Midsommar).