Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara’s Post

🗳️ Exciting News for Democracy Advocates! 📢 Last week, Governor Hochul signed a groundbreaking legislative package in New York State to strengthen democracy and protect voting rights. Here's a brief summary of the key provisions and why this is a game-changer for our democracy: 🌟 Legislative Package Highlights 🌟 - The legislation enacts crucial reforms, including early voting, no-excuse absentee voting, and automatic voter registration. - It eliminates the confusing and restrictive party enrollment deadline, making it easier for voters to participate in primaries. - New York will now join the ranks of states offering same-day voter registration and consolidated primaries, streamlining the voting process. - Most importantly, these changes aim to ensure that every eligible voter's voice is heard and that their votes are counted. 🌍 Impact on Underserved Communities 🌍 This legislation is a beacon of hope for underserved communities across the state. It addresses systemic barriers that have disproportionately affected marginalized groups, including communities of color, low-income individuals, and historically disenfranchised populations. Expanding access to the ballot empowers these communities to shape their future and hold elected officials accountable. 📣 Call to Action 📣 To make the most of these critical reforms and truly strengthen our democracy, we need your help: Spread the Word: Share this post and the linked article to raise awareness about these changes. Register Voters: Encourage eligible individuals in your network to register to vote and participate in elections. Volunteer: Join local organizations working to ensure that all New Yorkers can exercise their right to vote. Advocate for Change: Continue pushing for similar reforms in your own state and federal level. Let's create a nationwide movement for voter rights! Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable democracy where everyone's voice matters. 🇺🇸✨ #VotingRights #DemocracyMatters #Activism #NewYorkVotes

“The bill’s transparent attempt to frustrate and invalidate the will of the people as expressed through the citizen’s initiative process is an affront to the people of Colorado and the system of checks and balances that govern it” Ranked Choice Voting is clearly a threat to the Duopoly of the two parties, and they will BOTH resist any change to make election competitive. The fact that both parties are attempting to prevent the will of Colorado voters, before there is even a vote is clear evidence how much potential RCV has to return power to the voters and take it away from the parties and donor class. If you are a Colorado voter and want to see less toxic politics, competitive elections, and politicians who are accountable to the voter and not the big money donors, contact Governor Jared Polis and ask him to veto this shameful, undemocratic move by the legislature. You can contact Governor Jared Polis through his official website's contact form at https://lnkd.in/g5Wj7cni. Alternatively, you can call his office at 303-866-2471 or send a letter to: Office of Governor Jared Polis 136 State Capitol Denver, CO 80203-1792 Veterans for All Voters Unite America Jesse Paul Let Us Vote LET COLORADO VOTE League of Women Voters https://lnkd.in/gr7jwS-t

January 6 Remembrance & Call to Defend Democracy January 4, 2024 Remarks by Debra Cronmiller, Executive Director, LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS WISCONSIN   Today, the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin stands in partnership with the dozens of Wisconsin organizations that work tirelessly to defend our democracy and remembers the atrocities that took place on Jan. 6th, 2020. In hindsight, we know that this violent insurrection was ultimately an attack on voters and the integrity of those who administer our elections.  While we know our freedom to vote is a sacred right and the foundation of our democracy, it is under constant attack in Wisconsin and across the United States.  Our hardworking and professional election officials have to endure abhorrent treatment and threats when we should be thanking them every day for administering fair, safe and accessible elections. Especially in the shadow of Jan. 6th, we should be grateful for their continued commitment to elections that are accountable to the voter’s wishes.  Voters decide the outcome of our elections. Elections plagued with violence, rampant misinformation and voter suppression tactics are not free elections. Voters have the freedom to choose leaders that are representative, so we have a government that is wholly by and for the people.  Now is the time to demand federal legislation that will transform our country and truly protect the freedom to vote. We must pass The Freedom to Vote Act and John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to restore the power of the vote.  The Freedom to Vote Act is an act that would set national standards that expand opportunities to vote, protect against gerrymandering, modernize voter registration and tackle dark money.  The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act is an act that would restore and modernize protections set by the Voting Rights Act of 1965. It would combat modern discriminatory practices that disproportionately target people of color, the elderly and youth from voting. The path toward a better future is through accountability and justice. Coming together, we have the power to demand elected representatives create national standards that preserve our rights, ensure that trusted local election officials count every vote, and protect the results of our elections.  In Wisconsin, we need to work across the aisle to defend our democracy. We must ensure that our election officials are safe from vicious attacks to their credibility and accountability to our constitution and statutes. 

Embracing Democracy: My First Vote Voting is one of the most fundamental rights and responsibilities we have in a democracy. Today, I experienced the privilege of casting my vote for the very first time. As I walked into the polling station, I felt a profound sense of civic duty and excitement, knowing that my voice would contribute to shaping the future of our community and country. The Significance of Voting Voting is more than just a right; it's a powerful tool that allows us to influence government policies, elect leaders who represent our values, and hold them accountable. Every vote counts, and every election serves as a reminder that democracy thrives on the active participation of its citizens. Why Every Vote Matters Many people might think that one vote does not make a difference, but history has shown otherwise. There have been numerous elections decided by just a handful of votes. Each vote contributes to the collective voice of the populace, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in the governing process. Encouragement to First-Time Voters To all those who are eligible but have not yet exercised their right to vote, I urge you to do so. Your vote is your voice. It’s your chance to influence policy, advocate for change, and contribute to the democratic process. Voting is an act of empowerment and a step towards a more inclusive and representative government. Voting for the first time has been a rewarding experience, one that I will cherish and look back on with pride. I am eager to see the impact of my vote and remain committed to participating in future elections. Together, we can ensure that our democratic principles remain strong and that our government truly reflects the will of the people. Let’s make our voices heard. Let’s vote.

https://lnkd.in/gw9sATVh Sometimes you just have to ask. Journalists understand the importance of the LWV nonpartisan Voters Guide. KXAN added a link to VOTE411 to their excellent Voters Guide. "The non-partisan League of Women Voters has a voter guide available, including responses from candidates. You can also find a personalized ballot and candidate information on VOTE411."

OPINION: "Black voters now influence elections. The Georgia GOP wants to stop it" | AJC - Opinion | 02/21/2022 INSIGHT: Sixty-six years ago, for the first time since Reconstruction, the federal government directly challenged the South’s Jim Crow methods of voter suppression when the U.S. Department of Justice filed suit against white officials of Terrell County, Georgia. Its registrars had unjustly denied Black citizens, including Eddie and Edna Mae Lowe, their right to vote. Recently, news reports reveal that their daughter, Venita Epps, reciting her mother’s belief that “I ain’t no ways tired,” will be among officials helping Fulton County residents exercise their right to vote this year. This poignant, generational story personifies both how the struggles over voting rights in Georgia have changed – and how old patterns remain sadly the same. Today Georgia’s voter registration rates among Black and white citizens are comparable, although white turnout does remain higher. This vast change is due to persistent, massive work in Black communities across the state over decades, backstopped by enforcement of the 1965 Act and the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, which among other things made voter registration a part of getting a driver’s license. Unfortunately, what has not changed in Georgia is the continuing opposition of the prevailing majority-white political party to the federal laws that advanced this progress. The political parties in power have changed, but opposition to Black voting by the prevailing party has remained the same. Now, after Georgia recently elected with huge Black support its first African American to serve in the U.S. Senate, the Republican legislature enacted a new Republican-dominated state elections board for the expressed purpose of fighting against voter fraud. It also passed new restrictions on voting and polling places while making it easier for anyone to challenge thousands of persons’ right to vote. Old ways die hard. But real progress can continue and expand. It will require more white Georgians to support the right to vote for all citizens on the belief that protecting that right is more critical than partisanship for creating a good, prosperous society and a lasting, vibrant democracy. And it will need a new generation of Georgians to renew the vital work for voting rights that Edna Mae Lowe and many others undertook in the past. #BlackVotersInfluenceElections #1965VotingRightsAct #1993NationalVoterRegistrationAct #BlackVoterSuppression #SouthsJimCrowLaws #Georgia #VotingRights The New Georgia Project Obama for America Clinton Foundation The Wall Street Journal NPR POLITICO The Rockefeller Foundation City Year American Forum

The general election is all the talk today, and while I urge you to use your vote, and I do, I thought I would take a look at the history of voting: ❎ Women in the UK have only had equal voting rights with men for 96 years. Prior to this, women over 30 with property qualifications could vote - To put that in perspective, that is some of our grandparents, and certainly our great grandparents. If this was still in place today, I wouldn't be allowed to vote, would you? ❎ The voting age wasn't lowered to 18 until 1969, prior to that, you had to be 21 to vote in general elections. ❎ More recently, it was only in 1983 voting rights we extended to all British, Commonwealth, and Irish citizens residing in the UK. Did you know that EU Citizens with settled status in the UK, of which there are approximately 3.82 MILLION according to the3million, of which NONE are eligible to vote. Many have been raised in the UK from a young age, been educated in our school system, working and contributing to our economy almost their entire lives, but have no right to vote in the general election. I wonder if the winning party would be any different if they were allowed to vote, it would definitely give a more representative view of our wider population 🤔

Elections are the cornerstone of democracy, providing citizens the power to shape their government and influence key policies. Voting is not just a right but a civic duty that ensures the voices of the people are heard. By participating in elections, individuals contribute to the selection of leaders who represent their values and interests. This participation fosters accountability, as elected officials must respond to the needs and concerns of their constituents to secure reelection. Yes, yes i know slightly ironic given our previous 20 years of 'democracy' The importance of voting extends beyond choosing leaders. It is a mechanism for societal change, enabling the public to support or oppose legislation, social reforms, and community projects. Now more than ever. Voting in local, state, and national elections impacts various aspects of daily life, including education, healthcare, and public safety. Engaged voters can drive progress on critical issues like climate change, economic inequality, and civil rights. Moreover, high voter turnout is indicative of a healthy democracy. When more people vote, the government more accurately reflects the diverse perspectives within a society. This inclusivity helps prevent the dominance of any single group and promotes fairness in governance. Conversely, voter apathy can lead to the marginalization of communities and the perpetuation of inequitable policies. Voting is a powerful tool for democratic participation and societal improvement. It empowers individuals to influence their government, advocate for their needs, and drive forward positive change. Every vote contributes to the collective voice that shapes the future, making participation in elections crucial for the health and vibrancy of democracy. I'll be voting, will you ? This was a party political broadcast on behalf of 'non of the above' 😵

Want to be an Influcer? Western Cape Voters go out and vote. I attended a function in Cape Town where our president showed some love in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town. Does not get more real than this Kaapstad! There are several important reasons why voters in the Western Cape, as well as voters across South Africa, should go out and vote in the general election in May 2024: 1. Civic responsibility: Voting is a fundamental right and a way for individuals to have a say in the future of their country. By voting, people can contribute to shaping the direction of their nation and holding their elected representatives accountable. 2. Influence policies: By participating in the election process, voters can help influence the policies and decisions that affect their daily lives. Voting is a way to voice opinions and preferences on issues such as healthcare, education, the economy, and social services. 3. Representation: Voting allows individuals to choose the candidates and political parties that reflect their values and priorities. It is a way to ensure that their voices are heard and that their interests are represented in government. 4. Democracy: Elections are a cornerstone of democracy, and voting is a key way for citizens to participate in the democratic process. By voting, people can help uphold and strengthen democratic principles and ensure that the government is truly representative of the people. 5. Effecting change: Voting can be a catalyst for change. By participating in the election, voters can help bring about positive reforms, address challenges, and work towards building a better future for themselves and their communities. Overall, voting in the general election is a crucial way for voters in the Western Cape, and throughout South Africa, to have a say in the governance of their country and to contribute to the democratic process. Kom ons gaan huis toe Kaapstad, en vote!