Judy Rookstool   

Voting is a fundamental tenet in the United States, as both a simple decision-making tool and a manifestation of democracy. 

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Full enfranchisement provisions were enshrined in the 1965 Voting Rights Act which prohibited “discrimination on account of race, color or language minority” and prevented any jurisdiction from abridging the right to vote -- but was later weakened by a U.S. Supreme Court decision in 2013.  Even after the 1965 Voting Rights Act, people of color – both men and women – often were actively discouraged from voting. 

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Currently, several states have passed legislation to restrict this precious right.  As well, foreign interference has undermined the integrity of our election process -- an attack on democracy. 

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Voting is an act of the will of the people.  Every vote is a voice heard.

Do not assume you are registered to vote in the upcoming election; voters may be unaware that their names have been removed from voting rolls.  You may be able to register at your polling place on the day of the election and submit a provisional ballot, counted once your eligibility is verified.