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How Do I Recognize Voter Suppression?
Although the Voting Rights Act was constituted in 1965 to outlaw discriminatory voting practices, attempts to discourage and suppress voter participation—especially in African-American, youth, elderly, and impoverished communities—still exists. New voter laws could deny the right to vote to more than 5 million Americans this year.
Past Voter Suppression Acts Included:
- Poll taxes
- Literacy tests
- Grandfather clauses
What Current Attempts Are Being Made to Suppress the Vote?
- Voting ID Laws: Laws requiring government-issued photo identification to vote, and often of a type that as many as one in ten voters do not have
- Reduced early voting opportunities: Some states have limited the timeframe for early in-person voting, as well as eliminated or restricted early voting on Sundays.
What Can I Do to Oppose Voter Supression?
Voter Education
Voter education is important to navigating the unique challenges around new voting laws in your state. Here are a few ways you can prepare for Election Day.
- Register to Vote: 1-866-MYVOTE-1 (698-6831).
- Re-register to Vote: Did you know that you need to re-register if you move to a new permanent residence; change your name; or change your political party choice. Call 1-866-MYVOTE-1 to re-register.
- Bring your ID: Change doesn’t always happen overnight. While we are fighting to veto voter ID laws, don’t let this prevent you from voting.
- Stay connected for news and updates on these latest attempts to block democracy and what you can do to protect your voting rights.
- Pledge to oppose efforts by states to introduce voter ID laws that disproportionately impact minority and low-income communities.
How Can I Report a Problem?
- Call 1-866-MYVOTE-1 to register to vote, find your polling place, or report an issue.
- Share your story with Election Protection.
Voter Resources
We've created an information guide on voter ID and registration deadlines in Urban League affiliate states. Download the guide and share it with your friends, family and neighbors. Our rights are being threatened and voter turnout is expected to be lower in minority communities than in the previous election year. A "you+two" effort is needed to mobilize communities to vote. Be Prepared!
Check back soon for upcoming Occupy the Vote events, including workshops, rallies and registration drives. Also reach out to your local Urban League and support its campaign efforts.
Here are some other tools that can help you Occupy the Vote!
