One of the most important ways you can advocate is to vote in local, state, and national elections and to encourage your community to vote as well.
If you aren’t sure where to get started, check out your state’s guidelines on how to register to vote. For example, some states offer registration on election day and some require that you be registered prior to the election. Certain types of paperwork are also required to register, and may include proof of identity and proof of residency. It’s best to plan ahead so you are all set to vote on election day.
Know your rights! Voting should be made accessible to you regardless of your disability. Find a list of accommodations your state will provide here. You may find it easier to vote early or to vote by mail with an absentee ballot, so check to see if your state allows it. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 allows you to bring a friend, family member, or other person to help you vote.
Regardless of how and when you vote, you should be given every opportunity to cast your ballot.
Once you are registered and have a plan to vote, find out what is on your ballot so you can learn about the candidates and issues you will be voting on. Information about candidates can be found on their website, news and social media, or debates and candidate forums. If they have held office before, you can check out their voting record to see if they support issues important to you. For Members of Congress, search congress.gov by the legislator’s name to view the bills they have supported.
Remember, your voice - and your vote - matters! Make a plan to vote today!
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