High angle close up of woman who is a wheelchair user receiving voting ballot on election day

(Image: High angle close up of woman who is a wheelchair user receiving voting ballot on election day)

 

Voting, a fundamental right in many democracies, is more than just a civic duty; it’s a powerful tool for shaping the future of our communities, states, and nation. By casting your ballot, you’re not merely selecting a leader; you’re actively participating in the democratic process and influencing the decisions that impact your life and the lives of others.

For people with disabilities who rely on public services such as benefits, waivers, nonprofit programs and more, voting is critical. Independent living aims to bring the freedom of choice and voice, and that freedom comes with a responsibility to make your choices and bring your voice. Voting is one place where you can do that. It’s not a powerful position to abstain from voting because of cynicism or apathy, and then complain about the government, laws and policies.

 

Why Your Vote Matters

 

Your vote is a powerful way to communicate your priorities, concerns, and hopes to those who are elected to represent you. When you cast your ballot, you’re telling your elected officials what issues matter most to you. Whether it’s healthcare, education, independent living, benefits, climate change, or inequality, your vote can help shape the policies that address these critical issues.

Moreover, voting is a way to hold elected officials accountable. By voting, you’re sending a message that you’re paying attention to their actions and that you expect them to fulfill their promises. A strong voter turnout can encourage elected officials to prioritize the needs of their constituents and work diligently to improve their communities.

 

Accessible Voting

 

Two people stand inside table top voting stations, casting their vote.

Two people stand inside table top voting stations, casting their vote.

CPWD and other community organizations, including Boulder County, have made great efforts to advocate for and provide accessible voting opportunities. We’ve conducted election judge trainings to ensure that voting staff are training in assisting people with disabilities with accessible voting. We’ve held early vote centers, where staff and others are available to assist. We’ve also writing several articles explaining how to register to vote, how to find accessible voting online and in person, where to get assistance and more.

  • This page has tons of info on how to register, where and how to vote, deadlines and what you need to know to get your ballot in.
  • Read this to learn about Colorado’s electronic, accessible voting options.
  • This article digs into the history of disability voting rights, and contains links and resources to help you get your ballot in.

If you need assistance navigating any of these resources, please contact up at [email protected].

Your vote is very important!

 

The Ripple Effect of Voting

 

Your vote doesn’t just impact your local community; it can have far-reaching consequences. For example, local elections often determine the quality of schools, the safety of neighborhoods, the availability of accessible transportation, benefits, waivers, and funding for nonprofits and other organizations that provide independent living services. State elections shape policies on education, healthcare, benefits, funding, transportation and more. National elections impact federal funding, equality and equity, the economy, and the overall direction and sentiment of the country.

By participating in the electoral process, you’re not only influencing the present but also shaping the future. Your vote can help to elect leaders who are committed to building a better future for all. It can help to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable society.

 

How to Make Your Vote Count

 

Woman with SMA in electric wheelchair smiles and looks at camera in polling station. People vote in the background.

Woman with SMA in electric wheelchair smiles and looks at camera in polling station. People vote in the background.

To ensure that your vote counts, it’s important to be an informed voter. Take the time to research the candidates and their positions on the issues that matter to you. Do your research, read articles, and watch debates to stay informed. It takes about as much time as watching and episode on Netflix to look up candidates, policies, learn about the ballot issues, and decide where you stand. News stories can be misleading and confusing – they tend to focus on the drama and challenge. Nonpartisan organizations and fact-checking websites can offer the drama-free, dry facts.

VoteSmart is a site where you can enter a politician’s name and get information about their bio, positions, past speeches, ratings and more

Ballotpedia is a site where you can enter your name and email, get a preview of your ballot and information about the issues to help you make an informed decision.

Remember, your vote is a precious right that many have fought and died for. By exercising this right, you’re honoring the sacrifices of those who came before you and contributing to a future you want to see for yourself and those to come.

Head to the polls or get your electronic ballot, remember the power of your vote, and cast it with confidence. Your voice matters!

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(Image: Staff and BOD members from CPWD gather together at the state capitol for Disability Rights Advocacy Day in...