Newsletter

As we approach the upcoming elections, it is crucial to recognize that every vote matters—especially historically underrepresented voices like those of people with disabilities. Voting is not just a right; it is a way for every person to contribute to building the future they want to see. 

Many individuals with disabilities encounter extra barriers to voting, so we have put together a nonpartisan guide to reducing those obstacles and making sure all voices are represented.

Let’s start by answering the most common question: Why do I need to vote?

Sometimes it is hard to see the big picture when you are just one person of billions. It is easy to feel powerless and tell yourself that one vote doesn’t matter much, but if every person who had this thought voted, every ‘one vote’ would add up to thousands. Humans don’t exist in a vacuum. Most people have likely heard the adage “it takes a village.” This is usually referring to raising a child, but it also can apply to voting and many other circumstances. We have recently seen this concept related to Hurricane Helene which has impacted many parts of the southeast, including immense destruction in Western NC. There is no way that one person alone could repair the damage the hurricane caused, but hundreds of people have come together to clear trees, repair houses, and make homes safe to return to. Each of these kind and selfless individuals was just one person, but when they came together, they were a force of humanity. 

It is the same with voting. Your voice is important because every voice is important. It is only through working together that we will build the world we want to see. 

So now you that you have recognized the importance of voting, what comes next? For many people this is much more complicated than it may seem. They may have to consider work schedules, child care, transportation, accessibility, anxiety, or one of the other thousands of barriers many have to overcome in order to vote. The best thing you can do is to start now making a plan and back-up plan for voting. Many barriers can be removed by voting early or with an absentee ballot. Below are instructions and important considerations for all methods of voting. 

The below information is taken directly from the North Carolina State Board of Elections Website.