Pledge to Vote
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3. While every election is important, the decisions that voters make this year will affect every branch of government and potentially have far-reaching impact on the LGBTQ+ community. The Williams Institute estimates that 21% of LGBTQ+ adults (approximately 2.3 million) are not registered to vote in the 2020 general election.
The pandemic has cancelled many things, but it must not cancel our votes. Our voices must be heard. That is why OutFront Kalamazoo is asking everyone to Pledge to Vote.
By making a promise and a plan – and encouraging others to do the same – you’ll be increasing the odds that more people will go to the polls and cast their ballots. It is really as easy as 1, 2, 3:
1. Check to see if you’re registered to vote and, if you’re not, get registered now. Monday, October 19, 2020 is the deadline to register if you plan to vote by mail. If you plan to vote in person, you can register to vote and cast your ballot on the same day. Make sure your name and address match your voter registration.
2. Decide how you plan to vote. Many are planning to vote by mail. It's a safe way to vote and protect your health, and the process is secure and accurate. Follow this link to request an absentee ballot. Michigan voters who have already applied to receive an absent voter ballot should begin receiving them on September 24, 2020. Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has been reminding voters that their completed ballot may be returned by mail or dropped off at collection boxes at the offices of City or County clerks.
If you plan to vote in person, Michigan voters can now vote before Election Day through a process called absentee in-person voting. The period for absentee in-person voting runs from September 24, 2020 to Monday, November 2, 2020, but dates and hours may vary based on where you live. On Election Day, polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day. Verify your polling place and mark your calendar.
3. Tell others. Now that you have made a promise and set a plan, ask others to do the same. Share this story with your friends and family. Reach out to our allies and make sure they know why this election is important to you. Then share your pledge on social media. OutFront has created a social media photo frame to let others know you intend to vote. Use the hashtag #IPledgeToVote.
For decades, elections have determined the rate of progress made on issues that are crucial to the LGBTQ+ community. So we register, we vote, and we participate in politics. But today we often face new restrictions or unnecessary challenges in exercising our right to vote. This year, LGBTQ+ voters and allies must turn out in record numbers to ensure a better and safer future. Thank you for making a promise and joining millions of others who believe in a more fully inclusive democracy.
