5 Ways to Volunteer for Voting Rights
by Lilly McGee
With primaries in full swing, it's up to us to make sure everyone has the information and ability to cast their vote!
In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Week, here are five ways you can empower voters and defend democracy through volunteer work.
1. Register Voters
To make their voices heard, Americans need to register to vote – but voter registration opportunities are not created equally. Overly complicated or challenging registration processes are one of the most common forms of voter suppression, and they disproportionately impact communities of color.
By volunteering to register voters, you can be the difference in whether someone is able to cast their ballot. Local and state Leagues host countless voter registration drives, virtually and in-person, throughout the year; by joining, you can be a part of those efforts. You can also host your own drive or share voter registration tools in a matter of seconds by promoting VOTE411.org* on your social media.
2. Spread the Word
Door-to-door canvassing is considered the best way to Get Out the Vote (GOTV) – in one study, it increased election turnout by 9 percentage points. But if that's not the route for you, don't worry: phonebanks, textbanks, direct mail, and literature drops are all effective ways to get out the vote.
Search for opportunities in your community – GOTV efforts are more effective when taken by locals. You should be able to find opportunities with certain candidates, for your political party, and with nonpartisan organizations.
3. Advocate for voting rights legislation
With proposed anti-voter legislation at a historic high, we the people must work to ensure that voting is fair, transparent, and accessible. An easy way to do so is by promoting pro-voter bills like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (JLVRAA), which would prevent discriminatory voting practices.
Click the above link to send a letter to your representatives in support of the JLVRAA, and keep up with local, state, and federal voting rights legislation by connecting with your local or state League or joining our OutreachCircle.
* In California, use Voter's Edge. It contains all the information in Vote411 and more.
