The right to vote is essential to a well-functioning democracy. There are many historic moments that occurred in the month of July to expand voting for previously disenfranchised American citizens. Here are some to commemorate.

Three nonprofit organizations will host 20 candidates Sept. 12 at Bucks County Community College in Newtown. BCCC Social Science faculty member Bill Pezza will moderate the live, non-partisan forum to educate voters ahead of the Nov. 5 election.

Between now and November, candidates for many offices will be asking for your vote. But they must do their part to earn those votes. Learning where candidates stand on the two or three issues you care about can help you decide how to cast your vote. And there are several ways to find out — but only if the candidates participate.