This opinion was originally published in the Savannah Morning News.

The 2024 election set new records in voter turnout across Georgia, with our state reaching an unprecedented 5.29 million voters. Here in Coastal Georgia, we saw remarkable gains, particularly in Chatham County where voter participation increased by over 11,000. This year’s election results offer a powerful testament to the efforts of local organizations, volunteers and community members who believe that democracy thrives when every eligible citizen has access to the ballot and feels empowered to use it.

The League of Women Voters of Coastal Georgia’s mission is clear: to ensure that every eligible citizen has the information and support needed to participate in the democratic process. Voting is a fundamental right, and our goal is to make sure that right is accessible to everyone, especially those in underserved communities. We believe that informed, engaged voters are the backbone of a healthy democracy, and our work reflects this commitment.

In the months leading up to the election, we focused on a range of strategies to make voting easier and more accessible across South Georgia. One of the most visible efforts was placing large signs throughout the region with early voting dates and locations. This simple but effective step helped make voting information accessible to all, regardless of internet access, and reminded busy citizens to participate in early voting. Thanks to these efforts, early voting saw a significant boost, with a 36,999 increase in early voter turnout in the nine counties we serve.

We also distributed sample ballots in coastal counties. Sample ballots are a valuable tool for voters who want to prepare ahead of time and make informed choices. By familiarizing voters with their options before they reach the polling station, we hoped to make the voting experience smoother and less intimidating, particularly for first-time voters.

For many, however, the barriers to voting go beyond logistics. In Georgia, where there is a significant population affected by the criminal justice system, there is often confusion about voting eligibility. Many citizens with felony convictions are unaware that, under Georgia law, their voting rights are restored once they complete their sentences, including probation and parole. To address this gap, we partnered with the Southern Center for Human Rights to distribute 14,000 information packets to eligible detainees. These packets included voter registration and absentee ballot applications, along with educational materials that clarified voting rights for those reentering society.

This partnership extended to creating educational videos on voting rights for returning citizens, providing straightforward answers to common questions about eligibility. By addressing misconceptions and providing resources, we worked to ensure that no eligible voter felt discouraged or excluded. For individuals who have completed their legal obligations, voting is more than a right—it’s an affirmation of their role in society and their ability to contribute to their community’s future.

Media outreach and social media engagement were also crucial elements in our voter engagement strategy. Local and national press coverage as well as broadcast, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook increased the number of voters we could help.. The response we received—thousands of views, likes, and comments—demonstrated a strong interest in understanding voting eligibility and the importance of civic participation.

At the heart of all of these efforts is a simple but profound mission: to create an informed and inclusive electorate. Our work is about more than just getting people to the polls; it’s about helping individuals take pride in their role within our democratic system. When voters feel informed and confident in their right to vote, they are more likely to stay engaged, not only in elections but also in their communities. Our work shows that with the right support and information, even communities that have historically faced challenges can become active participants in the democratic process.

We believe this year’s success in South Georgia is not just a one-time achievement but a stepping stone for continued voter engagement in future elections. Moving forward, we will continue to advocate, educate, and reach out to communities across the region to ensure that every eligible voter has the chance to make their voice heard. Through sustained community-wide efforts, we can foster a more inclusive voting process where every voice is valued, regardless of background or past circumstances.

The League of Women Voters of Coastal Georgia remains committed to this mission. We thank the volunteers, community partners, and local media who played a part in this year’s efforts, and we look forward to continuing this work together. By empowering each other and supporting every eligible voter, we strengthen our democracy and build a brighter future for Georgia.