Election Day in the U.S. is Tuesday, November 8.
One of the most important rights (and responsibilities) of American citizens is the right to vote.
Originally under the Constitution, only white male citizens over the age of 21 were eligible to vote. This shameful injustice has been corrected and voting rights have been extended several times over the course of American history.
Today, citizens over the age of 18 cannot be denied the right to vote on the basis of race, religion, sex, disability, or sexual orientation.
Voting is an important way that we can participate in our democracy and make our voices heard. And it is something we should endeavor to protect, just like any other inalienable human right.
Register to vote
It is election season, so there is no better time to make sure you are registered to vote!
Check your voting status with your state here.
In many states, the registration deadline has already passed. If you are not registered, register now so that you are ready for the next election.
Create a plan to vote
Will you vote early? Consider:
- Early voting dates in your state
- Early voting locations (often different than your regular polling place)
Are you voting on election day? Consider:
- How you will get to the polling place
- What times polls close
- If you need accommodations from work to vote
Be prepared
Check your state’s voter ID laws to ensure you have the proper identification when you arrive at your polling place.
Know what is on the ballot and how you will vote before you arrive. Many states offer voter guides which provide an outline of what a yes or no vote on ballot initiatives means.
Spread the word
Encourage your friends and family to vote. Voting in midterm elections isn’t a priority for a lot of people, but it is really important.
Even though they might not be the most publicized elections, local government and politics has the biggest impact on our lives. And many times, change starts at the local level before it is filtered to the top levels of our governments.
Take action
Respect your right to vote! It’s a privilege that many people in the world don’t have. Many millions of American citizens are qualified to vote, but unfortunately many don’t. Those who don’t give up on a chance to choose leaders and representatives who will do things that are important to them.
Respect your right to vote! It’s a privilege that many people in the world don’t have. Now get out there, learn, and cast your ballot on November 8.