National voter registration day
Today, while I am writing this article, I am thinking about the importance of getting out the vote and participating in our Democracy. The upcoming elections, and the purported meddling in our elections by foreign governments, make it even more important for those of us with the privilege of exercising our right to vote to actually get informed and use the power. There are some simple things that you can do to amplify your power.
1. If you know U.S. citizens, ASK them if they are registered to vote and if not, encourage them to do so BEFORE the deadline.
2. If you know a 17 or 18-year-old, ask them to get registered to vote and help them do it for the first time.
3. If you know someone who is “coming off paper” – someone who has been in jail, but who has finished parole or probation, that person can get the right to vote restored. Encourage them to do so.
4. Offer a ride to the polls or help with reviewing the ballot.
5. Help your family/neighbor/friends check their voter information and make sure it is up to date for the election.
Get involved with the Main Stream Coalition. If you or your organization, (advocacy group, a PTA, a church, a neighborhood/business alliance, a home owner’s association, a book club, an activist clique, soccer team, or whoever you are), if you are interested in creating a new culture of voting, get in touch with Main Stream Coalition at: Voter to Voter at lindsay@mainstreamcoalition.org or (913) 649-3326.
