As we approach the upcoming election, thanks to the fantastic support from Gina VanderLoop at ROI Solutions, I can dedicate at least eight hours a week to voter outreach in North Carolina. Known for being a swing state in a tightly contested race, every vote matters. Unfortunately, numerous voter suppression tactics threaten to obstruct participation, mainly through the implementation of a complicated voter ID law that has faced national scrutiny but is fully operational for this election cycle.
For those who have navigated the voting process for years, bringing our driver’s license to the polls seems like second nature. However, many individuals don’t possess a driver’s license due to various circumstances and find themselves caught in a problematic loop: lacking a license, they’ve often misplaced or never received a copy of their birth certificate, and they don’t have a Social Security card. This barrier can be insurmountable, and it is here that my work with Vote Riders comes into play. I am helping to ensure those without the necessary IDs can obtain them, enabling them to vote and access resources like housing and jobs.
Understanding the Importance of Voter ID Laws
Understanding your state’s voter ID laws is crucial before heading to the polls. North Carolina’s regulations can be particularly tricky, and I urge everyone to verify their ID. The Vote Riders website is an excellent resource for this, as it outlines the details of all the ID laws across the country.
In addition to the voter ID law, another form of suppression we’re witnessing is the purging of voter rolls based on various technicalities. It’s disheartening to think you could be registered one moment and find your status invalid the next. For this reason, it’s vital, especially in swing states like North Carolina, to check your registration status frequently until you head to the polls. The most reliable resource for this information is your state board of elections, where you can find online tools to help you verify your registration status. Another good resource is Vote.org.
An Introvert’s Approach: Writing Voter Letters
Beyond my efforts with Vote Riders, I also volunteer time with VoteForward.org to write voter letters. This program allows individuals to “adopt” a list of voters in targeted states, ensuring outreach to those at risk of not voting. Each volunteer receives a digital file of pre-written letters that they can personalize with their thoughts on why voting matters. Once they’ve added their personal touch, they hand address the envelope, stamp it, and mail it when indicated.
Some of the stamps I ordered to send voter letters
This activity is one of my favorites because I often prefer working quietly behind the scenes. There’s something incredibly impactful about the personal connection that comes from writing and sending these letters. It feels good to contribute in this way, even as an introverted activist.
I have written almost 200 letters to voters in North Carolina!
Knocking on Doors to Make a Difference
Of course, nothing quite beats the effectiveness of face-to-face interactions. Inspired by Michelle Obama’s call to action—to “do something”—I have stepped out of my comfort zone almost every weekend to canvass. By talking to voters about the candidates at all levels on the ballot, I have discovered the powerful change that can occur when we engage directly with our community. Whenever I feel tired, anxious, or disheartened, I think of Governor Tim Walz’s words about how we can rest when we are dead; there’s too much at stake in this election to sit idly by.
I’m also in training to be a driver for voters on election day. This role is critical for those needing transportation assistance to get to the polls, and I can’t wait to help with this essential service. Stay tuned for updates as we move closer to November!
Together, We Will Make a Difference
As I continue my voter outreach work, I am reminded of the collective effort required to protect our democracy. Each phone call made, letter written, and door knocked can shift the tide of this election. I encourage anyone passionate about fostering civic engagement to join in these efforts. Let’s make our voices heard, fight against voter suppression, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to cast their vote. Every vote matters, and together, we can make a lasting impact.
