Civic Engagement in the Disability Community
Autumn in the United States welcomes us with cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and an air of civic engagement. Early Voting has started, and many organizations are working to get more people to the polls this year. Independence Alliance is working to make voting as accessible as possible. The disability community has always been involved in civic engagement activities, and that is how we have gained many of the rights we have today. Whether by voting, writing letters to policymakers, or practicing civic activism, disabled people have not shied away from advocating for various movements of change.
Everyone deserves equitable access to voting. Do your part in this movement by knowing your rights to reasonable accommodations while voting, and how to file a complaint if you face discrimination.
Although voting gets a lot of focus as Election Day approaches, there are other ways to get involved with civic engagement:
· Call/write to policymakers advocating for issues you care about.
· Sign up for local volunteering opportunities.
· Spread resources and information in your community.
· Attend meetings and events in your neighborhood.
Curbside Voting in Hamilton County
Independence Alliance worked with the Hamilton County Board of Election (BOE) to update their curbside voting policies to be more accessible. Previously, voters needing an accommodation to vote outside of the polling place were required to bring an additional person with them. This person would then need to enter the voting location to inform poll workers about someone needing to vote curbside.
With the updated policies, curbside voters will now be able to use this accommodation and vote from their vehicle without bringing someone else with them. There will be a designated parking spot for curbside voters, with a sign listing one or two phone numbers to call and inform the polling center you have arrived and are ready to vote. Two poll workers of opposing political parties will come to your vehicle and proceed with the voting procedure.
If you have questions about curbside voting or other accommodations, contact the Disability Rights and Advocacy Specialist.
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