ITHACA, N.Y. (WENY) -- The first annual Democracy Fest took place in Ithaca Sunday afternoon. With an emphasis on community, today's event was about using the power of voting to make change. 

This event was put on by Your Voice and Your Vote: Tompkins Civic Engagement Coalition. Speakers today included Senator Lea Webb, Ithaca City Council Member Phoebe Brown, and other local officials. 

“This event aims to encourage people to vote, but also to encourage people to begin civic engagement. Not only vote, but also get on committees, not only vote in the presidential election but vote in the community and be a part of change,” said Phoebe Brown, who also co-hosted the event. 

The August 6th date was chosen on purpose. The Federal Voting Rights Act was signed into law on August 6th in 1965, outlawing discriminatory voting practices. Sunday was a celebration of participating in democracy, and realizing that just one vote can make a difference. 

“It is something very special, it is a push for the right direction, especially at the time the country needs it. All the people need to unite for a common goal of having their voices heard,” said Anest Isufaj, a Democracy Fest attendee. 

 Brown says she was impressed with Sunday's turnout. 

“It feels amazing, and it also feels that people are ready for change. very much ready for change. People have understood and understand that they can't only talk about it, but they have to be about it,” added Brown.  

Your Voice and Your Vote: Tompkins Civic Engagement Coalition encourages everyone to check and make sure they're registered to vote and to use the privilege when the time comes.