What Black Voters Need to Know About Voter Suppression
What Black and Brown Voters Need to Know About Voter Suppression Tactics
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With just days until the 2024 U.S. presidential election on November 5, voting is more crucial than ever. This election offers the chance to shape policies and choose leaders aligned with your values. However, not everyone has equal access to the ballot box. Voter suppression—often subtle and indirect—can make the process confusing, inconvenient, or intimidating, especially for Black and Brown voters. From misleading ads with incorrect election dates to ballot drop box fires, suppression efforts are on the rise. Here’s what voter suppression might look like and how you can ensure your vote is counted.
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1. Unexpected Polling Place Changes and Closures.
What It Looks Like: If your usual polling location is suddenly closed or moved, especially with little notice, it could be an attempt to make voting harder for your community. Traveling further can be inconvenient, particularly if you lack transportation or can’t afford the time off.
What to Do: Double-check your polling location on your state’s election website before you head out to vote. Keep in mind, polling places can change, so stay updated.
2. Ballot Drop Box Destruction
What It Looks Like: Recently, ballot drop boxes in several states have been vandalized or set on fire. This tactic disrupts the flow of votes and can discourage people from using drop boxes altogether.
What to Do: If you’re using a drop box, make sure it’s an official, secure one. Track your ballot status (if available) to confirm it was received. If you notice any damage to a drop box, report it to your local election office immediately.
3. Misinformation and Scare Tactics
What It Looks Like: You might see messages claiming that certain groups of people will be turned away from the polls, or warnings about increased police presence at voting sites. These messages are often shared on social media and are intended to intimidate or confuse.
What to Do: Only rely on information from verified sources, like your state or county’s official election website. If you see misinformation, report it and encourage others to check reliable sources.
4. Strict Voter ID Requirements
What It Looks Like: Some states require specific forms of ID to vote, and these requirements can disproportionately affect people of color, young voters, and low-income individuals who may have limited access to these IDs.
What to Do: Confirm your state’s ID requirements ahead of time. If you don’t have the required ID, see if there’s an alternative, or make a plan to get the necessary ID before Election Day.
5. Voter Roll Purges
What It Looks Like: Some states remove people from voter rolls if they haven’t voted recently. You could arrive at the polls and find out you’re no longer registered.
What to Do: Regularly check your voter registration status, especially before an election. If you find yourself removed, you may be able to re-register or cast a provisional ballot, depending on your state’s rules.
6. Long Lines and Limited Polling Hours
What It Looks Like: Polling locations in communities of color often have fewer voting machines and longer wait times, making it harder for people with limited time or resources to vote.
What to Do: Try to vote early if your state allows it, or be prepared for potential delays on Election Day. Bring water, snacks, and any necessary medication to make the wait easier.
Most Important of ALL: Confirming Your Vote Was Counted
If you’re voting by mail or using a drop box, it’s natural to worry about whether your vote made it through. Here’s how to track your ballot and ensure your vote was counted:
1.Use Ballot Tracking Tools: Many states now offer ballot tracking services online. You can check whether your ballot was received and accepted.
2.Verify After Voting In-Person: If you voted at a polling place, there’s usually no direct way to track your ballot. However, you can verify your voter registration status afterward to ensure it remains active.
3.Contact Your Local Election Office: If you have any questions or concerns about your ballot, call or visit your local election office. They can answer questions about the status of your vote or any potential issues.
Don’t let these tactics discourage you. By staying informed, double-checking your voter registration, and using available resources, you can protect your right to vote and make your voice heard.
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