Dear John, As voters, we often hear about the importance of voting in the presidential race – but what about state and local races? These down-ballot races may receive less attention, but can have enormous impacts on the issues we care about most and affect our day-to-day lives. State and local leaders have the power to protect our freedoms or erode them further, and local ballot and constitutional measures can have an immediate impact on laws that impact our lives every day. Every city council member, every school board official, and every state legislator we elect plays a critical role in shaping policies that affect our lives, our families, and our communities. Progress at the local and state levels lays the groundwork for national change. In this election, voters across the country have the opportunity to exercise their power to make meaningful differences in their states and communities. New York voters have the chance to enshrine equal rights into their state constitution, expanding the list of categories protected from discrimination. Voters in California, Colorado, and Hawaii will vote on constitutional amendments to repeal bans or limits on same-sex marriage. In Arizona, voters have the chance to amend their state constitution to include the fundamental right to receive abortion care until fetal viability. Florida, Montana, Nebraska, and Nevada, voters have the same chance. Our fundamental rights can be shaped, expanded, or restricted at the state and local level. The fight for justice, bodily autonomy, and equity is not confined to Washington, D.C. – it’s happening in our city halls, county boards, and state legislatures. So what’s the one thing you can do today? Learn your ballot. Do your research on the candidates and issues that you’ll be voting on, and how they might affect your life, your family, and your community. The stakes in state and local elections are high, and every race affects how our values are reflected in the laws and policies that govern our lives. Your vote has profound power. In solidarity,  | 
