Disability Voting Rights Week September 11, 2023 – Posted in: Global News

Disability Voting Rights Week – Your Vote is Your Voice. Be Heard.

In a society that values democratic participation, everyone’s voice matters. Disability Voting Rights Week is a crucial initiative that sheds light on the importance of ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal access

to their right to vote.

Disability Voting Rights Week, observed September 11-15th this year, is an annual observance that highlights the challenges faced by people with disabilities in exercising their fundamental right to vote. It emphasizes the need for accessible polling places, voter education, and policies that break down barriers preventing individuals with disabilities from participating fully in the democratic process. This week serves as a platform to raise awareness about these issues and to advocate for change.

People with disabilities are the most underrepresented group in the halls of government. Most first-time candidates in government know little about disability issues and the services that exist within their communities. We want people in office who support the needs of the disability community. Support for programs like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicare. This is why your vote is important. Voting is not just a civic duty; it’s a way for individuals to express their opinions, preferences, and concerns. People with disabilities should have equal opportunity to influence policies and decisions that affect their lives.

Justin Dart Jr., known as the grandfather of the ADA (The Americans with Disabilities Act) once said, “Vote like your life depends on it. Because it does.”

Disability Voting Rights Week is not just about acknowledging challenges; it’s about taking action. As an organization that believes in empowerment, we encourage everyone to participate in advocating for change. Whether it’s spreading awareness on social media, attending information sessions, or engaging in conversations within your circles, your involvement matters.

Join us as we stand alongside the people we serve during Disability Voting Rights Week and beyond. Let’s work together to ensure every individual exercises their right to vote and contribute to a brighter future for all.

If you need help registering to vote, we are here to help! Each of our offices has paper registration forms and we can also help you register online! – https://voter.votewa.gov/WhereToVote.aspx

A person who has guardianship may still be able to vote and should not be turned away from a voting center by an election worker. Guardianship papers indicate if an individual has the right to vote. If there is ever doubt about a person’s voting status, the person should be issued a provisional ballot to vote with. Learn more about the resources available to voters with disabilities – https://www.sos.wa.gov/elections/voters/voter-eligibility-resources/voters-disabilities