#AdvocacyMatters: Planning to be heard

March 3, 2023 / #AdvocacyMatters

Access to the democratic process – where ballots are counted and voices are heard – is a foundational step in creating a truly equitable society. While entering a voting booth and casting a ballot seems like a simple task, the rules, restrictions, and red tape of bureaucracy far too often create insurmountable barriers around the polling place.

Early this year, Ohio enacted new restrictions that change many aspects of our state’s elections. These changes include shortening the early voting period, limiting the number of ballot drop boxes to one per county, modifying accessibility options at polling places, and changing the ID requirements to vote.

With the May primary election quickly approaching, the time is now to Plan Your Vote. Earlier this week we released two new resources, helping to explain Ohio’s new Voter ID requirements and the steps to obtaining a state-issued ID in Ohio. Our goal is to ensure that every Ohioan who wants to vote is aware of these changes and able to plan their successful voting experience now... no matter if they plan to vote by mail, in-person during early voting, or in-person on Election Day.

Please join our advocacy by helping share these new materials far and wide. While the systems of disenfranchisement are well-established, they can be overcome through education and awareness. As Election Day draws closer, we’ll have more information, more resources, and more opportunities to help ensure all voices are heard. #AdvocacyMatters