Voting is an instrumental part of advocacy within our country. With a presidential election fast approaching, voting is more important than ever. Voting should be accessible to all; make sure you know your rights and advocate for them. Depending on your state, you may have access to voting by computer, voting using a ballot drop box, voting by mail, or voting in person. The two most important laws I want you to keep in mind are Section 208 of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) does a fantastic job of breaking down what those two laws do for you. 

Section 208 of the VRA outlines that you are allowed to get help with voting. Title II of the ADA outlines that you have a right to get help with deciding where to vote, registering to vote, filling in your ballot, turning in your ballot, and anything else you need to vote. Every state has different laws on who may be allowed to help you vote. More information on these two laws and examples can be found on NDRN’s website.

Not all poll workers know about your right to disability accommodations. If you plan to vote at the polls, have a plan in place ahead of time. You can find out information for your state at Vote411.

If you have not had the chance to watch our advocacy attorney, Anthonya James, speak on the rights of voters with disabilities in our webinar, “Promote the Vote: Voting Rights and Accessibility Requirements,” I encourage you to do so.

You have the right to make your voice heard, and the elected officials who represent you should be taking your voice into consideration. Vote, because it is powerful.

We have two upcoming webinars in November. Register and join us on November 7 at 2:00 ET to hear from representatives of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation as they discuss updated findings about the experience of caregivers for disabled service members and veterans. Later in the month, check back and register for our webinar on November 21 at 2:00 ET as we cover the rights of passengers with disabilities to help in navigating air travel security.